The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, has offered valuable advice to Nigerians, suggesting the adoption of car pooling as a means to reduce the expenses associated with car maintenance, particularly in relation to fuel consumption.

The Oba Akanbi highlighted that car pooling could serve as an alternative arrangement to cope with the financial challenges resulting from the removal of fuel subsidies.

Additionally, the Osun monarch encouraged Nigerians to embrace this arrangement with their neighbors and trusted allies, fostering a sense of communal support in times of financial difficulty. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Alli Ibraheem, on Thursday, the Oluwo of Iwo also proposed the incorporation of cycling and walking for short distances, especially for individuals who are physically capable.

He pointed out that there is no societal distinction in advanced countries when it comes to bicycle riding, emphasizing the need for Nigerians to take proactive measures in managing their expenses. By adopting these methods of transportation, individuals can contribute to their own cost management strategies.

“While calling on the Nigerian government to fast track palliatives and salary increment for workers, I enjoin Nigerians to device car pooling as personal temporary relief to mitigate the immediate effect of subsidy removal. implementation of Fuel subsidy removal has placed a challenge before Nigerians. It has affected almost all facets of our lives. As a father to the nation, I will strongly suggest the alternative mostly especially for the middle class using cars. 

“Car pooling is an arrangement where neighbors on similar weekly or monthly routines decide to use just a car. Instead of the two or three of them going with their respective car to work, they can decide to use one person’s car for a week, another person’s car for another week and so on to save the cost of buying fuel. The same can be applied in conveying children to school. With the package, individuals can adjust with less hardship in transportation cost. 

“Sometimes, we can use bicycle for short distance. Bicycle riding is for all irrespective of your class. Many great people ride bicycles even to their workplace in advanced countries. A few will decide to take a walk for a shorter distance. Walking and bicycle riding is healthier. Nigerians should wake up. Let’s face the reality together so we can enjoy its sweet end together. 

“Wealthy Nigerians should equally imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship. Many will pay the bike man daily to convey children to school. Rich individuals with a car can help the children of his neighbors going to the same or nearest schools.

“It’s understandable that Nigerians are going through a lot. President Ahmed Tinubu meant well. I’m convinced he will alleviate our sufferings and make this country great. Let’s be patient. We will laugh when the relief comes,” he said.