C’River exempts women, elderly drivers from vehicle registration, levies

The Cross River State Government has introduced a significant policy change, exempting women operating commercial vehicles and men aged 60 and above from paying vehicle registration fees and daily operational levies. This initiative is a key component of Governor Bassey Otu's "People First" agenda, branded as a "Season of Sweetness" for the state's transporters.

Chief Oliver Orok, Chairman of the Cross River Transport Regulatory Agency (CTRA), announced the policy, emphasizing that women in the commercial driving business will now operate entirely free of charge regarding registration and daily dues. Similarly, men over 60 who own and operate commercial vehicles will also benefit from these exemptions.

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Women who are into this driving business will not pay for registration of their vehicle and will not pay daily operational levies. The operation is free for them.

Beyond these exemptions, the government is implementing further measures to support commercial drivers. Ticket prices have been reduced to a minimal amount, and the enforcement of certain road offenses has been suspended to facilitate smoother business operations. The state also plans to continue offering free transport services during festive periods and provide fuel subsidies to boost businesses.

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Men above 60 years of age, who own their vehicle and wish to drive commercially, are also exempted. They won’t pay registration, or pay daily levies.

However, the CTRA is also addressing compliance issues, particularly concerning improper vehicle painting and unauthorized stickers. Drivers are urged to adhere to the state's official colors for uniformity. To ensure adherence and curb revenue loss caused by non-compliance, the CTRA will commence special enforcement on August 1, in partnership with security agencies. Orok highlighted that some drivers and union officials encourage non-payment, creating division and fairness issues.

In an effort to increase civic participation, the CTRA has partnered with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to facilitate voter registration for drivers. Recognizing that many drivers lack the time to visit registration centers, plans are underway to establish registration points along major transport routes.

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This enforcement is to ensure fairness and protect government revenue.