Gov Otu Suspends Ticket Sales, Levies On Inter-City Transport Operators

Governor Bassey Otu has approved the immediate suspension of ticket sales, levies and all related charges imposed on inter-city transport operators across Cross River State.

The directive followed a meeting between the state government and the leadership of the Inter-City Drivers Association over concerns about multiple ticketing and excessive charges affecting transport operators.

In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Governor, Linus Obogo, the suspension takes immediate effect pending further directives from the government.

According to the statement, the governor’s approval covers all forms of ticket sales, levies and related charges being collected from inter-city transport operators by government agents and security personnel across the state.

The government directed all agencies and security operatives involved in the collection or enforcement of such charges to comply fully with the directive.

The administration said the decision was taken in response to concerns raised by transport operators and forms part of efforts to create a more business-friendly environment for operators and investors in the state.

The statement further disclosed that the government will convene a stakeholders’ meeting to develop a sustainable framework for regulating activities within the transport sector.

According to the government, the engagement will bring together transport operators, government agencies and other key stakeholders to identify solutions that balance the interests of operators, commuters and the state.

The suspension is expected to provide immediate relief for transport operators who have repeatedly complained about the burden of multiple ticketing and numerous levies on their operations.

The state government reiterated its commitment to improving the ease of doing business and supporting economic growth through policies that reduce operational challenges for businesses and residents.

It added that the directive reflects Governor Otu’s determination to ease economic pressures on citizens while advancing his administration’s development agenda across Cross River State.