Hassan Turaki
The Kwara State Government has assured transport operators in the state of its continued commitment to protecting their welfare.
The state Commissioner for Transportation, Lafia Korasabi, stated this during a meeting with the Chairman of the Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria (TOAN) in Ilorin.
Lafia, who frowned at the situation, re-echoed that adherence to the agreed ticketing terms is central to maintaining harmony, fairness, and the welfare of all stakeholders.
The Commissioner also disclosed that out of the total daily ticket levy charged by the union, only ₦200 accrues to the State Government through the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS).
He therefore distanced the government from any insinuations of overcharging transport operators and places value on the contributions of every transport operator to the state’s economy and social cohesion.
Lafia stressed that the administration prioritises a fair operating environment that is favourable to both transporters and commuters.
He further stressed that “any act of non-compliance is not only a violation of the agreement but also a threat to the peace and stability of the Kwara transport sector.”
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alhaji Salau
Abdullahi, reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to fairness, transparency, and sustained collaboration with transport unions.
He urged union leaders to call their members to order and ensure compliance with the approved levy.
Alhaji Salau maintained that continued overcharging has created dissatisfaction among operators and could lead to avoidable unrest if not promptly addressed. END. ALI MUHAMMAD RABIU
