In a move aimed at alleviating the financial strain on commercial transport operators and promoting fairness in the state’s transportation system, Governor Bassey Otu has announced significant reductions in transport tickets and fines, along with stricter operational guidelines for regulatory agencies.
The governor’s decision follows widespread concerns raised by drivers and residents in the Calabar metropolis regarding high ticket prices, hefty penalties, and enforcement practices. After convening a meeting with key stakeholders and authorities, Otu outlined a series of reforms in a statement released on Saturday, emphasizing the need for transparency and order.
Key among the changes is a slash in daily tickets for commercial buses from ₦850 to ₦500, with the penalty for non-purchase set at ₦10,000. Tricycle riders will also see relief, with their tickets reduced from ₦1,200 to ₦500. Additionally, all traffic-related fines across the state have been halved, providing broad-based cost savings for operators.
To enhance accountability, enforcement officers are now mandated to wear proper uniforms and carry verifiable identification during duties. The governor further delineated roles for regulatory bodies: the Commercial Transport Regulatory Agency (CTRA) will limit its activities to vehicle registration and ticket sales at the approved rates, while the Traffic Management and Regulatory Agency (TRAMRA) will stick to its core traffic management functions.
In a notable restriction, the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) has been confined to office-based operations only, curbing its on-road activities. Aligning with the administration’s “Season of Sweetness” initiative, mini-bus drivers and tricycle riders are exempted from purchasing tickets on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
However, tricycle operations must cease by 6:00 p.m., with night rides remaining permanently banned.
“These directives will take effect from Monday, March 9, 2026,” Otu stated.
“I urge all operators and the general public to cooperate fully with the relevant agencies as we continue to build a transport system that is fair, orderly, and beneficial to everyone.”
The reforms are expected to ease the economic pressures faced by transport workers amid rising fuel costs and inflation, while fostering a more regulated and professional environment on Cross River State’s roads. Residents and operators have welcomed the announcements, though implementation will be closely watched in the coming weeks.
