Motor parks in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, witnessed a decrease in passenger turnout on Friday, contrary to the anticipated Easter holiday rush.
A check carried out by the News Agency of Nigeria at Iwo Road and Ojoo Bus Terminals indicated no significant increase in interstate travel.
The Chairman of Saki Motor Park, Mr. Michael Adelokun, remarked that the number of buses departing from the park to various destinations fell short of expectations.
He observed a notable decline in passenger numbers, signaling a deviation from the usual trend.
“Due to financial constraints, people have refrained from traveling, although there has been no increase in transportation costs. Presently, a trip to Saki costs N3,000 by bus and N3,500 by car,” he mentioned.
Adelokun highlighted the escalating expenses in fuel and vehicle maintenance, imposing a strain on their business revenues.
He pointed out a significant surge in the price of engine oil from around N3,500-N4,000 to N16,000 and in tire prices from N28,000-N30,000 to N65,000.
“Considering the weakened purchasing power of Nigerians, it is challenging to raise fares amidst the surge in prices of goods and services,” he added.
Similarly, Mr. Isahu Salawu, the Secretary of Park Management System at Iwo Road Motor Park, noted that people opted to stay home to manage their finances.
The financial constraints have adversely affected their business during festive periods, stripping away the usual vibrancy at the parks.
Salawu bemoaned the high petroleum costs and other operational expenses in the transport sector, emphasizing that fares remained unchanged despite the challenges.
One passenger, Mr. Tafa Alaba, mentioned that fares to Iseyin had slightly risen from N1,300-N1,500 to N1,700. Despite the increase, he believed it was manageable, yet fewer individuals were inclined to travel as before.
Miss Tobiloba Samuel, who was heading to Lagos for the Easter holidays, stated that bus fares increased from N2,500 to N3,600, and car fares from N3,600 to N4,100.
NAN’s observation highlighted the absence of the usual hustle and bustle associated with festive periods at motor parks.
NAN