Cross River Enforces Uniform Bus Color for Enhanced Safety and Aesthetics

The Cross River State government has mandated a uniform color for commercial buses in a bid to enhance safety and aesthetics within the state’s transportation sector.

The decision has sparked a protest by some minibus drivers, who argue that the directive is both harsh and exploitative.

In response to the protest, Cross River’s Commissioner for Transport, Ekpenyong Cobham, explained that the move is aimed at ensuring the safety of commuters and improving the overall appearance of the state’s transportation system.

He stated that only about 5% of commercial drivers in the state are currently trained and certified, emphasizing the need for proper regulation and training.

The Commissioner also pointed out that the cost of painting the buses and obtaining security coding has been reduced from ₦80,000 to ₦51,400, in an effort to make the process more affordable for drivers.

He stressed that security coding is a law that has been in place since 2021 and is intended to help the ministry identify the owners of vehicles, rather than just the drivers.

The protest by the minibus drivers comes amid concerns about the enforcement of traffic laws and the need for professional and certified drivers in the state.

Cobham highlighted that many commercial transport operators in Cross River flagrantly abuse traffic laws because they lack the necessary training and certification.

The state government’s decision to enforce uniform bus colors and security coding has been met with resistance from some quarters, as commercial drivers argue that the move is an additional financial burden.

However, the government maintains that the measures are necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of commuters, as well as to improve the overall aesthetics of the state’s transportation system.

As the situation unfolds, the Cross River State government and commercial drivers must work together to find a solution that addresses the concerns of both parties and ensures a safer, more efficient, and visually appealing transportation system for the state’s residents.