Relief For Drivers As Cross River Slashes Bus, Keke Ticket Prices
Governor Introduces Reforms to Ease Economic Pressure
THE Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Edet Otu, has announced a series of reforms aimed at easing the financial burden on commercial transport operators and residents while restoring order in the state’s transport sector.
The measures follow complaints from drivers and commuters in Calabar over rising ticket costs, heavy fines, and alleged harassment by enforcement officials.
The growing discontent recently led to peaceful protests by mini-bus drivers and tricycle operators—popularly known as Keke riders—who blocked major roads in the metropolis for several hours before government officials intervened.
Major Reduction in Daily Ticket Fees
At the centre of the reforms is a significant reduction in daily operational ticket fees for commercial vehicles.
Under the new policy, daily tickets for mini-bus operators have been reduced from ₦850 to ₦500. Tricycle operators, who previously paid ₦1,200, will now also pay ₦500 per day.
Governor Otu said the decision was taken after consultations with transport unions and other stakeholders.
“I have approved measures aimed at easing the burden on our hardworking drivers while restoring order, fairness and transparency in the transport system,” the governor said.
In addition, all traffic-related fines across the state have been reduced by 50 percent.
However, authorities maintained that drivers who fail to purchase their daily ticket will face a penalty of ₦10,000 in order to maintain compliance with the system.
Weekend Ticket Exemption
In what the governor described as part of his administration’s “Season of Sweetness,” commercial transport operators will no longer be required to pay daily tickets on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
The move is expected to reduce operational costs for drivers while enabling them to increase their earnings during peak weekend periods.
Despite the concessions, the government maintained the restriction on tricycle operations after 6:00 p.m., citing security concerns.
Restructuring Enforcement Agencies
Beyond financial relief, the reforms also introduce major changes in how transport regulations will be enforced.
Governor Otu said the Commercial Transport Regulatory Agency (CTRA) will focus strictly on vehicle registration and ticket sales at approved rates.
Meanwhile, the Traffic Management and Regulatory Agency (TRAMRA) will be responsible only for statutory traffic management duties.
The Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) will now operate strictly from its official premises rather than carrying out roadside enforcement activities.
New Rules for Enforcement Officers
To address complaints of harassment by officials, the governor directed that enforcement officers must appear in proper uniforms and carry verifiable identification during operations.
According to him, the new guidelines are designed to ensure professionalism, transparency and accountability among regulatory agencies.
“I urge all operators and the public to cooperate fully with the relevant agencies as we continue to build a transport system that is fair, orderly and beneficial to everyone,” Otu said.
Drivers Welcome the Reforms
The reforms, which took effect on 9 March 2026, have been welcomed by several transport operators in Calabar.
Some mini-bus and tricycle drivers described the measures as a major relief that would allow them to operate in a more peaceful and supportive environment.
They also expressed hope that the new policy would reduce tension between transport operators and regulatory officials while improving the overall efficiency of the transport system in the state.
