The Kwara State Government yesterday assured transport operators in the state of its continued commitment to protecting their welfare, while emphasising the need for mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence within the transport sector.

The assurance was given by the Hon. Commissioner for Transportation, Lafia Aliyu Korasabi, during a meeting with the Chairman of the Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria (TOAN) at the Ministry's headquarters in Ilorin, following reports that some ticket collectors were charging operators above the officially approved levy.

Hon. Lafia, who frowned at the situation, re-echoed that adherence to the agreed ticketing terms is central to maintaining harmony, fairness, and the welfare of all stakeholders.

The Commissioner also disclosed that out of the total daily ticket levy charged by the union, only N200 accrues to the State Government through the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KWIRS). He therefore distanced the government from any insinuations of overcharging transport operators and stated that the daily ticket levy should be reverted to the initially agreed N700.

He emphasised that the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration places value on the contributions of every transport operator to the state's economy and social cohesion, stressing that the administration prioritises a fair operating environment that is favourable to both transporters and commuters.

"The government expects strict adherence from everyone involved, and any individual found undermining this arrangement will face the full consequences of the law. We call on all union leaders to guide their members towards compliance, ensuring discipline, fairness, and continued harmony within the transportation system," the Commissioner said.

He further stressed that "any act of non-compliance is not only a violation of the agreement but also a threat to the peace and stability of the Kwara transport sector."

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alhaji Salau Kabiru Abdullahi, reiterated the Ministry's dedication to fairness, transparency, and sustained collaboration with transport unions. He urged union leaders to call their members to order and ensure compliance with the approved levy, noting that continued overcharging has created dissatisfaction among operators and could lead to avoidable unrest if not promptly addressed.

Also present at the meeting were the Senior Special Assistant on Transportation, Hon. Ibrahim Orire; the Senior Special Assistant on Youth and Sport Development, Hon. Adebayo Mohammed Kamaldeen; and all Directors of the Ministry.