As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks his second year in office, a former South East Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Hon Emeka Okafor, has called on the federal government to prioritize the refurbishment and reactivation of Nigeria’s railway system as a viable alternative to road transport, amid soaring fuel prices.
Speaking in an interview with our Reporter, Hon Okafor expressed concern over the rising cost of fuel and its ripple effect on the prices of goods and services across the nation. He noted that the high cost of fuel is severely affecting the average Nigerian and driving up inflation.
Hon Emeka Okafor
Okafor noted that the cost of fuel today, is equivalent to the amount used to buy a car in the past. “The price of fuel even though is stable now, is not sustainable for the masses. Something must be done urgently”.
The former IPAC Chairman called on President Bola Tinubu to use the occasion of his second anniversary in office to introduce policies that would revitalize the economy and provide relief to ordinary citizens. One key recommendation he made was the revival of the nation’s dormant railway lines.
“If fuel prices cannot be reduced, then we must invest in alternatives. Revamping the railway system is critical. It would allow traders and commuters to move their goods and services across the country at a significantly lower cost”, he said.
He emphasized that in addition to reducing transportation costs, a functional railway network would also help to curb road-related insecurity, making travel safer and more affordable for Nigerians.
Turning to developments in Abia State, Hon Okafor commended Governor Alex Otti for the progress made so far under his administration. However, he urged the state government to intensify its efforts in repositioning Abia, noting that the state deserves the best.
He stated that the people of Abia State have high expectations and the current administration must continue to rise to the occasion, focusing on governance.
Hon Okafor further highlighted the urgent need for infrastructural reforms and alternative transportation solutions to alleviate the burden on citizens and promote national development in the face of economic headwinds.
