By Ogochukwu Isioma
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced the suspension of the commissioning ceremony of 102 ultra-modern buses acquired for the newly rebranded Edoline Mass Transit Scheme.
The Governor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on Monday, said the suspension was “a mark of deep respect and national mourning”, following the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Buhari, who ruled Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, died on Sunday in a London clinic after a protracted illness. He was aged 82.
According to Okpebholo, proceeding with the flag-off of the public transportation initiative at this time, would be insensitive and out of tune with the national mood.
“President Muhammadu Buhari was a towering figure in Nigeria’s democratic journey and governance history. As a people, we must reflect this period of national loss with appropriate solemnity. Therefore, we have decided to postpone the unveiling of the Edoline buses in honour of his memory,” the Governor said.
The Governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the late President, the government and the people of Katsina State, and indeed all Nigerians who feel the weight of this monumental loss.
He further expressed regret over the inconveniences caused to invited guests, dignitaries, stakeholders, and members of the public who had looked forward to the event. He assured them that a new date for the commissioning will be communicated in due course.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing reliable and people-centered public transportation and pledged that the Edoline initiative will soon be operational to ease intra-urban mobility for Edo residents.