‘One Chance’: Wike to Ban Unpainted Taxis, Buses

The Federal Capital Territory Administration has disclosed its intention to prohibit unpainted taxis and buses from operating on Abuja roads.

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike revealed this during a press briefing in Abuja on Monday.

Mr. Wike clarified that the decision is aimed at tackling the ‘one chance’ criminal activity prevalent in the city. ‘One chance’ involves criminals posing as commercial drivers engaging in robbery, assault, and, at times, even murder against unsuspecting passengers.

While acknowledging a reduction in the ‘one chance’ menace, the minister emphasized the need for more stringent measures to completely eradicate this trend in Abuja.

“We are not going to allow vehicles that are not painted with FCT colour and registered by the FCTA to ply commercial in the territory. That way, you know the driver is certified by the FCT, and the buses and the taxes were also approved by the FCT.

“When this is done, you, as the passenger, will not take the risk of going to enter any vehicle that you don’t even know,” he said.

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Mr. Wike emphasized the necessity for Uber operators to undergo registration in order to operate in Abuja, ensuring that the government is informed about the identity of the drivers.

He further noted the importance of drivers obtaining certification and undergoing profiling by security agencies, emphasizing the need for rules in the city to prevent potential issues.

The minister also expressed apprehension about the absence of an official terminal in the capital territory where residents can conveniently board buses to specific destinations.

“That way, you know the drivers and the vehicle that you are entering. But currently, everybody is just on the road. You are going to Nyanya, a car is on the road, you enter; you are going to Wuye, a car is on the road you enter.

“What we are trying to do in the 2024 fiscal year is to at least build three terminals for a start, so that we will know the buses and taxes that will carry people from such terminals.

“When this is done nobody will take the risk of going on the road to waif for a taxi. That way, you will be able to reduce crime,” he said. 

(NAN)