Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has commissioned 56 new Toyota Hiace buses for the state-owned transport service, Edoline, as part of efforts to improve public transportation.
The unveiling is part of a broader plan to acquire 100 buses before the end of February.
Additionally, the governor handed over 38 Toyota Hilux vans and 16 Prado Jeeps to security agencies in the state to enhance crime-fighting efforts. The commissioning ceremony, held in Benin City, was attended by top government officials, security chiefs, and party chieftains.
Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, praised Okpebholo’s decision to revive Edoline Transport Services, a state-owned transport system originally established during the administration of the late Samuel Ogbemudia. Oshiomhole noted that the revival of Edoline would create competition in the transport sector, offering Edo residents more choices for inter-state travel.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, Betty Enekpen Isokpen Otimenyin, described the provision of security vehicles as a timely intervention in the state’s fight against crime. She assured residents that the police and other security agencies would intensify patrols in areas such as Ubiaja, Uromi, Auchi, Oluku, Ring Road, and Ramat Park to ensure safety.