Mr. Uche Nebuwa, the National President of the Heavy Duty Truck Drivers Association (HDTDA), has emphasized that the removal of fuel subsidies poses a significant problem for the transport industry, and a solution can only be found by repairing old refineries.
Nebuwa made this statement during the inauguration of the Uzoeghelu General Motor Park in Ogidi, Anambra State. He expressed concern about the impact of the fuel price hike on transporters and society as a whole.
According to Nebuwa, the fuel hike has created a formidable obstacle for transporters, and President Bola Tinubu should have consulted with them before implementing the subsidy removal. He argued that no palliative measures would effectively address the issue of increased fuel prices unless the old refineries are restored to proper functioning.
Nebuwa also criticized the distribution of solar lights as a palliative, claiming that it would not have a positive effect on Nigerians and would further exacerbate the situation. He asserted that this approach was simply a temporary measure to pacify people, but it would not resolve the underlying socio-political and economic challenges facing the country.
Regarding the inauguration of the motor park, Nebuwa stated that it was part of the state government’s efforts to maintain order on the roads. He emphasized that the park was strictly for travelers within and outside the state and would not tolerate the presence of touts.
Mr. Augustine Udeozor, the Zonal Chairman of the South-East National Union of Road Transport Workers, echoed the sentiments expressed by Nebuwa. He called the fuel price hike a widespread problem that needs to be addressed by the federal government, as it is causing significant hardship for the masses.
In conclusion, Mr. Obiegbu Ikeobi, the Chairman of the Njikoka Local Government Area Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, announced that business operations would commence fully at the newly inaugurated motor park the following day, emphasizing the importance of attracting vehicles and passengers to the facility.
