Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde announced on Friday night that his administration will deploy free “Omituntun” transport buses to help residents cope with the nation‑wide fuel scarcity and naira crisis. The declaration was made during a statewide broadcast on the state‑owned radio service, the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State. Makinde, who condemned the violent protests that erupted earlier in the day, affirmed that his government is prepared to take any necessary steps to ease the people’s suffering, while urging citizens to voice their grievances peacefully and warning that lawlessness will not be tolerated.
Chief Press Secretary Taiwo Adisa confirmed that the governor has placed security agencies on high alert to prevent any further breakdown of order, as reported by The Eagle Online. Makinde explained that the Omituntun Mass Transit Buses will be expanded to additional routes across the state, offering free rides to alleviate the hardships caused by the twin crises. He also said he is collaborating with local government chairmen to provide immediate palliatives for the most vulnerable residents.
In his address, Makinde said, “My dear good people of Oyo State, I speak to you because the prevailing conditions in our state and country have led to protests and riots, especially in Ibadan. I understand the need for these protests; when citizens are pushed to the wall, there is only so much they can endure. The continuous fuel scarcity and the devaluation of the naira have slowed economic activities, and I feel your pain.”
He emphasized that peaceful protest is a right and a responsibility, but warned that it can quickly turn violent, resulting in loss of life and property. “The violence that erupted in parts of Ibadan today is condemnable and will not be tolerated,” he said, adding that he has suspended all campaign activities and met with security heads to restore calm.
Makinde urged citizens to use their PVCs, not violence, to effect change, and cautioned against those who might exploit peaceful protests for ulterior motives. He reassured law‑abiding residents that security forces are on high alert, so there is no cause for fear. As a palliative measure, he directed the deployment of free Omituntun buses on more routes and pledged to work with local government chairmen to deliver immediate assistance to those most affected by the fuel and naira shortages. He concluded by urging everyone to remain calm while the government works to mitigate the hardships.
Comments are closed for this story.