ICYMI: Despite Economic Challenges, Ondo Govt Increases Daily Ticket Fees for Motorcycle, Tricycle Operators
Nigeria’s economy is currently working backward, especially with the GDP ranking fourth by the 2024 estimate in Africa. President Bola Tinubu has initiated different policies to rescue the falling economy but experts have said most of the policies are counterproductive to the president’s initial aims.
The challenge with the economy has caused an unprecedented inflation on price of commodities, leaving those who could not afford basic needs go hungry. For this, there was an hunger protest last year against the government to find lasting solutions to the problem of hunger in the country. The protest was subsequently followed by deadly stampede in Ibadan, Anambra and Abuja when people queued for giveaways.
Despite all these, Ondo State Government officially increased daily ticket fees for commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators. This decision had earlier been demonstrated by the Oyo State Government last year but it was revoked after a protest.
However, the Government has defended his decision saying it is in line with economic realities.
The decision has attracted criticisms from some residents, who want the Government to review the fees.
The increase in the ticket fees being paid by commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators in Ondo State came to them as a new year surprise.
According to the new directive issued by the state government, the ticket fee being paid by commercial motorcyclists has been increased from 150 to 500 naira, while tricycle operators will now pay 1,000 naira as against 300 naira being paid before.
At a press briefing in Akure, the chairman of Ondo State Internal Revenue Service, Bayo Rojugbokan said the new price will ensure fairness, while eliminating exploitative practices by agents.
Some residents expressed divergent views about the decision by the State government.
But the state government said the decision is in the best interest of the people and that it will not affect transport fare.
Agency Report
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