Daud Olatunji
In a scathing rebuke of the recent launch of the E-Mobility Programme by the APC-led government under Dapo Abiodun, the Ogun State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has voiced its strong reservations and called for transparency and accountability in the programme’s execution.
The Governor has presented the E-Mobility Programme as a measure to counter the effects of the Federal fuel subsidy removal.
However, the PDP in a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary,Akinyele Bankole, raises crucial questions about the authenticity and purpose of this initiative, asserting that it appears to be another smokescreen concealing the government’s true intentions.
Foremost among the PDP’s concerns is the need to clarify whether these newly unveiled buses are the same ones initiated by the Federal Minister of Transportation, Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, in April 2022.
The PDP emphasizes that this information is pivotal for informed public discourse.
Furthermore, the party demands clear details regarding the procurement of these vehicles.
The PDP queries “Were they purchased by the Ogun State government or through Federal government funds? If purchased, what was the unit cost? These fundamental facts are essential for the public to understand the program’s financial implications fully.”
The PDP also calls attention to the absence of comprehensive information about the bus routes and corresponding tariff rates.
They contend that a sincere and honest government should provide such details during the official launch of a significant program. This lack of transparency, in it’s view, raises doubts about the government’s intentions.
The condition of the state’s roads, which Sen. Godswill Akpabio recently acknowledged as deplorable, is another point of concern.
The PDP reminds the public of their repeated appeals to the APC government to address the state’s road infrastructure.
The statement read partly, “First and foremost, – , Hon. Rotimi Amaechi in April 2022. This information is essential to facilitate an informed public discussion about the programme.
“Additionally, it is crucial to clarify the source of these vehicles. ? If indeed they were procured, what is the cost per unit?
“These fundamental details are necessary to enhance public understanding of the program, unless, of course, this entire endeavour is yet another ” ” ‘ ‘ . Recall that several Gateway Transit Buses were commissioned in April 2022; has there been an explanation for their disappearance?
“Another pressing concern is that this program appears to be , – .
“A sincere and honest government would, during the official launch of such a celebrated program, provide information about the official bus routes across the State and the corresponding tariff rates.
“This is why our esteemed party, drawing from past experiences, advises all citizens and residents of the State not to be carried away by another empty effort from the ruling APC government.
“The entire spectacle seems to be a staged attempt by the Governor to create an impression that all is well in the State.
Another peculiar aspect of the E-Mobility drama is the deliberate disregard for the deplorable condition of our State’s roads before the program’s launch.
“Recently, the visiting President of the Nigerian Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, acknowledged the terrible state of our roads in Ogun State.
“We remind the public of our numerous appeals to the APC government to address our road infrastructure.
” .
“It reflects misplaced priorities and an imprudent waste of resources, akin to putting the cart before the horse.
” , . The Dapo Abiodun-led APC government cannot expect the public to simply accept the sudden deployment of buses without addressing fundamental concerns.
” The Governor, with the limited time left in office, should familiarize himself with the unique challenges faced by the people of Ogun State. Our reality differs from that of Lagos. Mr Abiidun should take advantage of President Bola Tinubu’s restriction of uninvited junketiers visits to the villa.
“It is crucial that Mr. Abiodun sits back home and focuses on fulfilling his primary responsibilities of conducting the business of government to improve the well-being of the people.”
The PDP’s message is clear: before the people of Ogun State can fully embrace the E-Mobility Programme, they demand answers, transparency, and action on the critical issues facing the state.
They assert that real progress requires focusing on the people’s well-being rather than mere political posturing.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE