The Director of Communications of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has criticised the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, over claims that some transport operators are deliberately creating artificial shortages amid the ongoing transport chaos.
His comments follow remarks by Mr. Kwakye Ofosu, who attributed the recent worsening transportation challenges in Accra to unlawful practices by some private transport operators. According to the minister, some drivers deliberately withdraw their services, particularly during peak hours in urban centres, to create scarcity and increase profits.
Responding in an interview with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Channel One TV’s The Big Issue on Saturday, Mr. Ahiagbah cautioned the government against blaming private transport operators for the situation, urging it to focus on addressing the root causes of the problem.
“To the extent he’s creating the impression that maybe some artificial shortages have been created, it’s very shocking to me. I don’t think that the government in any sense should be reading such motive into people’s private business.
“The government should ask itself the cause of this. I don’t think that the idea that people are being disingenuous by creating shortages doesn’t fly for me. I don’t think it’s deliberate at all, and the government shouldn’t be dragging that,” he said.
Mr. Ahiagbah called for a more sustainable and structured approach to resolving the transport challenges, stressing the need for proper regulation of the sector.
“How is the government regulating and creating an environment for businesses to thrive? How is the government regulating these private transport organisations? There must be some creative ways to regulate their affairs,” he suggested.
Transportation in Accra has deteriorated in recent days, with commuters enduring long queues and increased fares, particularly during peak hours. The situation, which worsened during the 2025 yuletide season, continues to affect passengers in areas including Madina, Amasaman, and Kasoa, despite assurances from the Transport Minister that steps are being taken to resolve the challenges.
