By Mercy Akuba
The Managing Director of Edo City Transport Services, Barr. Festus Ehiejele Ehiemua has lauded Gov.Monday Okpebholo’s approval of 50 mass transit busses for Edo City Transport Services (ECTS).
Barr. Ehiemua who was appointed two months ago made the commendation while interacting with journalists in his office in Benin City.
According to the ECTS boss , the additional 50 buses to the 43 already on the road, Edo People are assured of efficient and pocket friendly transport services.
“When I resumed duty , I actually did not know where to start, I only met 12 buses that were working, the other ones were parked because their parts needed to be changed. As you know, all the buses were bought in 2010 under Comrade Oshoimohole . Their parts can not be easily found in the Market. So, I have to start making contacts in South Africa and Korea where some of the parts were courier down to Nigeria ”
” As we speak, about 43 buses were refurbished and they are already on the road working efficiently ” He said.
” In addition to refurbishing the busses, I have to erect a modern canopy at ring road terminal where passengers can sit and wait for buses instead of standing under the scorching Sun.we are also planning to renovate our loading bail so it can look attractive and conducive for passengers to sit”.
” The Governor’s approval of 50 mass transit bus that will be handed over to us on the 19 of February has given me a great relief, right now the management staff are all on their toes recalling some of the drivers that were sacked under the former Governor, Godwin Obaseki, so they can resume work again “.
According to Barr. Ehiemua, arrangements are on top gears to re-open out stations that were closed up in Lagos, Abuja, Onitsha, Delta , etc.
” We don’t make profit from intrastate transport services, our rates are low compared to the normal commercial taxi services. Where they carry 1,000 , we carry 400, and where they carry 500, we carry 200 Naira, remember, our purpose is not to make profit but to reduced cost of living for our people “.
He applauded Governor Okpebholo’s three months in office, saying it is characterized with outstanding performances that have brought governance to the doorstep of Edo People.
He assured Edo People of the company’s commitment under his leadership to support Governor Okpebholo mantra of a new Edo has risen.