The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Abeokuta South Federal Constituency, Chief Toyin Amuzu, popularly known as TA, has distributed free fuel support to 600 commercial transport operators in Abeokuta as part of activities marking the June 12 Democracy Day celebration.
The two-day intervention programme, held on Wednesday and Friday, benefited 200 commercial taxi drivers with fuel worth ₦10,000 each and 400 commercial motorcycle riders with fuel worth ₦5,000 each, providing much-needed relief amid the current economic hardship.
Speaking during the exercise, Amuzu said the initiative was his way of identifying with the people during difficult times while also honouring the sacrifices of late Chief MKO Abiola and other heroes of democracy who fought and paid dearly for the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today.
According to him, “June 12 should not only be a day of remembrance but also a period for leaders to demonstrate commitment to the welfare and well-being of the people. This is my own little effort, which I have continued to make over time, even without holding any political position.”
“As we celebrate June 12, we must remember the sacrifices of Chief MKO Abiola and other democracy martyrs who laid down their lives for the democracy we enjoy today. The essence of democracy is the welfare of the people. It is about improving lives and giving hope to the ordinary citizen,” he said.
Amuzu lamented the worsening economic conditions in the country, saying many Nigerians are struggling to survive due to rising living costs, insecurity, and declining economic opportunities.
“I won’t allow my people to die in penury. No one can honestly say things are easy. Families are finding it difficult to put food on the table, transport operators are battling high fuel costs, and small businesses are struggling to stay afloat. While we continue to demand better governance, we must also support one another and provide relief where possible,” he stated.
The PDP chieftain described the fuel distribution as a modest social support initiative designed to help transport operators increase their earnings and sustain their businesses.
“This support may appear small, but it can make a significant difference. When a driver or rider uses this fuel, it means more trips, more customers, and more income. Ultimately, it translates into improved welfare for their families,” he added.
Amuzu disclosed that the fuel support programme is the 16th in a series of interventions he has personally sponsored over the years to cushion the effects of economic hardship and improve the living conditions of residents of Abeokuta South and beyond.
He reaffirmed his commitment to people-centred leadership, promising to continue championing initiatives that directly impact the lives of ordinary citizens.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the PDP House of Representatives candidate, describing the gesture as timely and thoughtful in view of the prevailing economic realities.
Several taxi drivers and motorcycle riders said the fuel support would reduce their operational costs and enable them to earn better returns from their daily activities.
Community leaders and residents who witnessed the programme commended Amuzu for consistently standing with the people through practical interventions, noting that his numerous humanitarian efforts — especially the drilling of over 20 boreholes in various communities — have positively impacted many lives across Abeokuta South.
Over the years, Chief Toyin Amuzu has supported various community-based initiatives, including food assistance programmes, educational support, healthcare interventions, youth empowerment schemes, and other social welfare projects targeted at vulnerable members of society.
As Nigerians commemorate another Democracy Day, many beneficiaries, including Musbau Adisa, Sunday Adejare, and Wale Akingbade, said Amuzu’s gesture embodies the true spirit of June 12, which includes sacrifice, service to humanity, and a commitment to ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach the people.
