Free Omituntun 2.0 buses for PWDs: Disability Leader Publicly Commends Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

 Free Omituntun 2.0 buses for PWDs: Disability Leader  Publicly Commends Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

--Raji Ade Oba

Ibadan. 

 

Ambassador Olusegun Oyedeji, Oyo State’s foremost disability leader and sports administrator, has expressed great appreciation to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for providing free public transportation to thousands of people with disabilities in the state.

Toward the end of 2023, the Oyo State Government, as part of palliative measures to cushion the effects of naira and fuel scarcity on residents of Oyo State, implemented the Omituntun 2.0 bus that he had promised to Oyo residents under the “Sustainable Actions for Economic Recovery” (SAfER) initiative. 

This initiative was designed to improve the city’s mobility and alleviate the challenges that come with subsidy removal.

Although the state government rolled out the fares and list of intercity and intracity routes of Omituntun buses, the governor has formally exempted people with disabilities from paying a kobo. With a government-issued identity card for persons with disabilities under the aegis of Oyo State Agency for People with Disabilities, no single ID-carrying disabled person will pay a fare to enter Omituntun buses in the state. 

The ID card is the condition attached to enjoy free public transportation.

Branded under the umbrella of “Sustainable Actions for Economic Recovery”(SAFER), this initiative bolsters the city’s intracity mobility and introduces intercity connectivity, linking Ibadan to various zones.

Oyedeji expressed his profound gratitude and appreciation for the remarkable initiative taken by the Makinde administration in providing free public transportation to thousands of people with disabilities in Oyo State, adding that this commendable effort reflects the governor’s commitment to inclusivity and social welfare, and it has undoubtedly made a significant positive impact on the lives of many.

The ambassador expressed that the decision to extend this service to people with disabilities showcases a deep understanding of the challenges they face in accessing public transportation. By eliminating financial barriers, the governor has not only made daily commuting more accessible but also fostered a sense of dignity and independence among this often marginalized group.

All disability clusters, including the Deaf, the Blind, the physically challenged, people with albinism, and significant others, will use the Omituntun 2.0 buses free of charge statewide.

 

The provision of free public transportation is a testament to this administration's dedication to creating an inclusive and compassionate society. It goes beyond just policy implementation; it reflects a genuine concern for the well-being and empowerment of all citizens, regardless of their physical abilities.

As a resident of Oyo State and a native of the Ibadan South West Local Government Area of Ibadan, the Ambassador said he and his community were proud to witness such progressive and empathetic governance, adding that the current state leadership sets a remarkable example for others to follow.  “I believe that initiatives like these contribute significantly to the overall development and well-being of our beloved state.” He enthused.

On behalf of the Oyo State disability community, the disability leader and administrator thanked Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the marginalized people of Oyo State. “Your actions resonate deeply, and they inspire hope for a more equitable and inclusive future.” He concluded.