The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has attributed the recent worsening transportation challenges in Accra to unlawful practices by some private transport operators.
According to him, some drivers artificially create a scarcity within the transport system, especially within urban centres at peak hours, to drive up their profits.
Transportation in Accra has deteriorated in recent days, with commuters facing long queues and inflated fares, particularly during peak hours.
The situation worsened over the 2025 yuletide and continues to affect passengers in areas such as Madina, Amasaman, and Kasoa, despite assurances from the Transport Minister that measures are being taken to resolve the challenges.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu acknowledged that commuting within the capital had become increasingly difficult in recent days, particularly during peak morning and evening hours.
However, the government will lead the action to deal with drivers who engage in these unlawful acts.
“The case is that the transport sector is largely private-sector-led, so we have bodies such as the GPRTU and other transport unions who organise the systems that convey the public,” he said.
He explained that following successive reductions in fuel prices, which led to a 15% cut in transport fares, some operators had resorted to creating artificial shortages in the system to maximise profits.
“After the persistent reduction in fuel prices, there are some operators who have decided to engage in undue practices by creating artificial shortages,” he said.
Mr. Kwakye Ofosu cited instances where drivers deliberately avoided designated stations in areas such as the Kwame Nkrumah Circle, choosing instead to roam in search of desperate commuters willing to pay more.
“What some of these drivers have done is that they do not go to the stations. They roam around, and with the shortage created, they compel passengers to part with more money than they ordinarily pay. They are creating scarcity to drive up profit,” he said.
He described the practice as unlawful and assured the public that the government was taking steps to deal with operators involved in such activities.
“It is an unlawful activity, and the government is looking at it to ensure that those involved in such behaviour are dealt with,” he added.
