SDP raises questions over fate of 250 CNG buses in Niger
The Niger State chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has raised concerns regarding the fate of over 250 CNG-powered buses reportedly acquired by the state government, alleging they have been left to deteriorate at the Trade Fair Complex in Minna, the state capital.
The SDP claimed the buses were intended to provide affordable transportation options for residents in the wake of the fuel subsidy removal. However, the party stated that the vehicles, purchased with taxpayer money, have not fulfilled their intended purpose.
In a statement issued Monday, Jonathan Vatsa, spokesperson for the SDP Governorship Campaign Council, criticized Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for not safeguarding public investments. Vatsa, a former Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, asserted that the buses have remained unused at the complex for over three years, with their parts reportedly vandalized and the vehicles susceptible to further damage.
The party questioned the rationale behind the government’s decision to allocate public resources for the buses while allowing them to sit idle, suggesting that this reflects a lack of accountability in handling public funds.
“What can the governor tell the people of this state regarding the reason for allowing those buses, purchased with state resources, to waste away at the Trade Fair Complex?” Vatsa asked.
He further criticized the government for neglecting various public projects, despite witnessing an increase in revenue from the Federation Account. Vatsa alleged that the administration prioritizes private businesses and farms over public initiatives, which suffer from insufficient funding.
Vatsa urged residents to reflect on the state government’s track record on project delivery as they prepare for the 2027 elections. He stated, “In 2027, the people of this great state have a choice to make, either to remain stagnant with abandoned projects and unpayable loans or choose the path of progress.”
He emphasized the need for a government that would not only complete projects but also responsibly manage public resources, rather than accumulating debt while neglecting public investments.
Efforts to reach the state governor for a response through his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, were unsuccessful as he could not be contacted at the time of this report.
