The Abossey Okai Spare Parts Dealers Association has rejected claims by the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) and the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) that rising spare parts prices contributed to the recently announced 30 per cent increase in transport fares, describing the claim as false and misleading.

In a statement, the Association said there had been no increase in spare parts prices to justify the explanation being offered by commercial transport operators, accusing them of using the fare increase to pressure government and extort money from ordinary Ghanaians.

"They are road robbers," the Association said.

According to the dealers, there have also been no significant changes in import duties or market conditions to support the claim. It said stock levels at Abossey Okai remain stable, while prices of essential components, including engine oil and filters, have remained unchanged.

The Association further noted that commercial transport operators themselves had indicated they purchase spare parts online rather than from dealers at Abossey Okai, questioning the basis for linking the fare increase to the spare parts hub.

It called on driver and transport associations to base any fare adjustments on verifiable economic indicators rather than unfounded allegations, and urged greater transparency in fare discussions, with government regulators and transport unions all involved in the process.

This, it said, would help ensure fare decisions are fair and accurately reflect prevailing economic conditions.

The Association urged transport users and the public to disregard the claims, reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accuracy in matters affecting Ghana's transportation and automotive spare parts industries.

Enquiries were directed to its Director of Communications, Takyi Addo.