The Rivers State Ministry of Transport has disbanded all Task Forces on Road Congestion.
The move follows complaints by residents of unruly behaviour of officials towards residents,a case in point being the harassment and extortion of money by officials on a resident as shown in a viral video.
In a statement, the Commissioner of Transport, Collins Onunwo said the decision ” reflects the commitment of Governor Siminilayi Fubara in prioritising the safety and wellbeing” of residents of the state.
The statement Dated November 26,2024 and addressed to all stakeholders and the general public read:
DISBANDMENT OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT TASKFORCES ON ROAD DECONGESTION
In response to widespread complaints from residents of Port Harcourt regarding harassment and extortion by officials of various taskforces on road decongestion, and following the circulation of a viral video depicting a woman being harassed and extorted of forty thousand naira by taskforce officials along Ada George Road, the Rivers State Government has taken immediate action.
The Honourable Commissioner for Transport, Collins Onunwo, hereby announces the immediate disbandment of all local government and Ministry of Transport taskforces on road decongestion operating across the state.
This decision reflects the commitment of the administration of His Excellency, Governor Siminialayi Fubara, to maintaining a governance approach with a human face, prioritizing the safety and well-being of Rivers State residents. The government unequivocally condemns any form of harassment, intimidation, or extortion under the guise of taskforce operations.
The Honourable Commissioner assures the public that the government is reviewing strategies for regulating traffic and the activities of motorists. A new taskforce will be reconstituted at an appropriate time, ensuring transparency, efficiency, and accountability in its operations.
The Ministry of Transport appreciates the cooperation of all stakeholders in this transitional period and calls on residents to remain vigilant and report any further acts of harassment to the appropriate authorities.
For inquiries or to report incidents, please contact the Ministry of Transport.
