Residents of Calabar, the capital of Cross River State, have commended Governor Bassey Otu’s free Christmas bus service, calling it a huge relief and a significant help in easing the high cost of transportation.
It is recalled that Otu recently launched a free bus service under the theme “Xmas Free Transport Service,” aimed at alleviating economic hardship and helping residents and visitors move around the state during the festive season.
According to the governor, the free bus service is part of his administration’s “People First” agenda and aligns with the Carnival Calabar theme, “Traces of Time.”
At the flag-off ceremony on December 1, 2025, Otu noted that the initiative is a welcome development that will bring joy and unity to Cross Riverians during the Christmas season.
Speaking with The PUNCH on Monday in Calabar, residents praised the scheme, saying the free bus service has made it easier for people to navigate the Calabar metropolis without spending money during the festive period.
Ukomma Sampson, a resident, said, “I want to throw a big shout out to our Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu, our sweet Prince, for giving us free buses that take us around wherever we go. Particularly in Calabar, since this free bus came into existence, I have not paid for transportation. And this has really helped us to save our money.”
Mary Obi, a trader in Calabar South, commended the governor, saying, “This is the first time in years that I can travel back home after sales with ease. I will just carry my loads and take a free bus and they will take me to my house for free. I thank our governor, and I want him to sustain this kind gesture beyond the Christmas season.”
Pascal Ijom, a resident of Ekorinim in Calabar main town, described the initiative as a boost to the local economy and called on the state government to also address the high cost of rent to create balance in the capital city.
Effiom Ekeng, a father of four from Marian, Calabar main town, praised the initiative and suggested that the state government expand the free bus service to other areas. “Calabar is not the only city in Cross River, if they want to do something remarkable, Governor Otu should extend this free bus service to other places like Ikom, Obubra, Obudu, Obanliku, Bakassi, Akpabuyo and even Odukpani which is very close to us here,” he said.
Traders at the popular Watt Market, in separate comments, lauded Governor Bassey Otu’s initiative, describing it as “a deliberate effort to assist the poor masses.”
