Seyi Makinde, the governor of Oyo State, stated on Friday night that free “Omituntun” transport buses will be made available to people of the state in order to lessen the impact of the nation’s fuel shortage and currency issues.
Makinde made this announcement during a statewide broadcast that was carried by the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State, a state-owned radio station.
The governor stated his administration was prepared to take whatever action was required to ameliorate the suffering of the populace and expressed disapproval of the violent protests that broke out earlier on Friday in the state.
However, he urged state people to air their frustrations in a peaceful manner, reiterating that his government would not tolerate a breakdown of law and order.
Taiwo Adisa, the governor’s chief press secretary, said in a statement that Makinde has placed security agencies in the state on high alert to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
The governor claims that the Omituntun Mass Transit Buses would be put to use on more routes inside the state to transport residents for free.
Additionally, the governor stated that he was collaborating with the state’s local government chairmen to provide immediate palliatives for the most vulnerable citizens in order to lessen the hardships that the crises had caused them.
Makinde said in the broadcast, “My Dear Good People of Oyo State. I am addressing you today because of the prevailing conditions in our state and country that have led to protests and riots, especially in Ibadan.
“First, let me say that I understand the need for these protests. When citizens get pushed to the wall, there is only so much that they can take.
“The continuous fuel scarcity and the scarcity of the naira have led to slow economic activities. I must repeat, I understand, and I feel your pain.
“I have always maintained that peaceful protests are fine. When things are not going how we want them to go, we have a right and even a responsibility to protest.
“Let me also state that while we are protesting, we must remember how easily a peaceful protest can turn violent and lead to the loss of lives and property. The violence that erupted in parts of Ibadan today (Friday) is condemnable and will not be tolerated.
“In response to this, I have suspended all campaign activities forthwith. I have also met with the heads of security agencies in Oyo State to restore calm and maintain the peace in our dear state.
