PDP Group Criticizes Akwa Ibom's New Transport Tax

A group within the People's Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the Akwa Ibom State government for implementing a new transport tax through a biometric registration and unified ticket system for commercial tricycles and minibuses, set to commence on March 16, 2026. The statement, signed by PDP chairman Tom Fredfish and secretary Saviour Uko, described the initiative as insensitive, especially during a time when citizens are grappling with unprecedented economic hardship.

The group, represented by Papa J, criticized the state government, led by Umo Eno, for introducing policies that would ultimately increase transport costs and worsen living conditions for citizens. They noted that civil servants already spend a significant portion of their salaries on transport due to the lack of a functional state transport system.

The PDP group argued that the government should address fundamental issues in the transport sector rather than imposing additional financial burdens on the public, which disproportionately affects the economically vulnerable segments of society.