Concerns have emerged over the operation of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses introduced by the Edo State Government, with road users questioning reported refuelling arrangements and the treatment of other motorists at filling stations.
The concerns followed the rollout of 50 CNG buses launched in Benin City on October 15, 2026, by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, alongside a ₦1 billion empowerment scheme for residents.
The buses, introduced under Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration, are intended to improve public transportation and provide residents with more affordable mobility.
However, public discussion has focused on a reported arrangement under which a government-owned CNG bus allegedly received priority while refuelling, raising questions about fairness to private motorists and commercial drivers waiting to access the same facility.
Reacting to the controversy, the Edo State APC Presidential, National Assembly and State House of Assembly Campaign Council, through its Director of Media, John Mayaki, called for a fact-based assessment of the complaints.
Mayaki argued that dedicated arrangements for public transport could be justified where they improve efficiency and reduce delays for commuters. He cited the Bus Rapid Transit system in Lagos as an example of how special provisions can support public transportation.
He nevertheless stressed that any priority-refuelling arrangement in Edo should be properly authorized, transparent and communicated, while taking into account its impact on other road users.
The campaign council also addressed a separate video allegedly showing a government CNG bus experiencing mechanical difficulties around Oka Market in Benin City. Mayaki said the circumstances should be investigated before conclusions were drawn about the vehicle or the wider transport initiative.
He called on the relevant authorities to assess the vehicle’s condition, passenger safety and any repairs required, emphasizing that public transport vehicles must be properly maintained and fit for service.
The controversy comes as Nigeria expands the use of CNG as a potentially cheaper alternative to petrol. However, motorists in several parts of the country have raised concerns about inadequate refuelling infrastructure, long queues and the cost of converting vehicles to run on gas.
The Edo State Government is expected to ensure that its new transport initiative operates efficiently, with transparent procedures and adequate safety measures, while addressing legitimate concerns raised by commuters and other road users.
#EdoState #MondayOkpebholo #CNGBuses #CompressedNaturalGas #PublicTransport #BeninCity #NigeriaNews #OnPointGist
