Fuel Scarcity: Lagos Govt. declares 50% cut in BRT buses, LAGRIDE taxi, Ferry fares for 7 days

Oredola Adeola

As part of efforts to ameliorate the impact of the perennial fuel scarcity on citizens of Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwoolu, has declared a 50 percent cut in fares on all our BRT buses, LAGRIDE taxi scheme, First Mile and Last Mile buses, and Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) beginning from Thursday, February 9 to Wednesday, February 15.

Governor Sanwoolu made this announcement in an official statement to citizens of the state on Wednesday.

According to him, the fuel situation has, no doubt, raised tension in the land.

He said “I hereby declared a 50% cut in fares on all our BRT buses, LAGRIDE taxi scheme, First Mile and Last Mile buses, and Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY).

“This will take effect from tomorrow for the next seven days. We will push out more Cowrie Cards to enable more Lagosians to get on board our services,” the Governor said.

He disclosed that the decision was taken due to some events in the country.

“We have taken some steps to cushion the effects of these measures that were announced at the Federal level but with telling effects on States.

“There have been talks between the State Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) on the lingering fuel shortage.

“NNPCL demanded Ijegun Egba tank owners and operators unhindered access to the tank farms where about 40 percent of petroleum products come from. We have been able to do that by rearranging the timing of the work on the Buba Marwa Road, the dual carriageway that leads to the tank farms.

“The road is over 50 percent completed. Now, you would have noticed some improvement in the supply of petroleum products.

“Also, we have given approval for 24-hour work at petrol stations around the State.

He said, “On behalf of the Executive Council, I thank you most sincerely for standing firm and demonstrating your confidence in our ability to protect your interest in these difficult days.

Sanwoolu however issued a warning to those he called mischief makers, who may want to use the fuel crisis as an opportunity to incite violence, that this is not the way to go.

He also enjoined every law-abiding citizen in the state to go about their lawful business without fear. He also commended the Military, the Department of State Services, the Police, the Civil Defence, and Neighbourhood Watch) for their service and diligence these days.