Government Blames Transport Woes in Accra on Unlawful Practices by Some Drivers

The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has attributed the recent deterioration in transportation services in Accra to unlawful practices by some private transport operators.

According to him, certain drivers deliberately create artificial shortages within the urban transport system, particularly during peak hours, in order to increase fares and maximise profits.

Transportation in the capital has worsened in recent days, leaving commuters stranded in long queues and forced to pay inflated fares, especially during morning and evening rush hours. The situation became more pronounced during the 2025 yuletide and continues to affect residents in areas such as Madina, Amasaman, and Kasoa, despite assurances from the Minister of Transport that steps are being taken to address the problem.

Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu acknowledged that commuting within Accra has become increasingly difficult in recent times. He, however, assured the public that the government is prepared to take action against drivers who engage in illegal activities.

He explained that Ghana’s transport sector is largely driven by private operators, organised under unions such as the Ghana Private Road Transport Union and other transport associations responsible for managing public transport services.

Mr. Kwakye Ofosu noted that following successive reductions in fuel prices, which resulted in a 15 percent cut in transport fares, some operators resorted to unfair practices to offset the reduced charges.

“After the persistent reduction in fuel prices, some operators have decided to engage in undue practices by creating artificial shortages,” he said.

He cited instances where drivers deliberately avoid designated loading stations in areas such as the Kwame Nkrumah Circle, choosing instead to roam in search of commuters who are willing to pay higher fares out of desperation.

“What some of these drivers do is that they refuse to go to the stations. They move around, and by creating a shortage, they compel passengers to pay more than the approved fares. They are deliberately creating scarcity to increase profits,” he explained.

Describing the practice as unlawful, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu assured commuters that the government is working to ensure that operators who engage in such conduct are identified and sanctioned accordingly.