In a robust display of public dissent, residents and a coalition of community groups from the Epe division took to the streets on Saturday morning to protest the recently imposed tollgate charges on the Ijebu-Ode–Mojoda–Epe Road by the Ogun State Government.
EpeInsights reports that the protest, which began at the Fari Expressway, quickly escalated as demonstrators barricaded the busy dual carriageway with tires and wooden planks, effectively halting traffic and leaving hundreds of commuters stranded.
The newly introduced toll fees, seen by many as excessive and unfair, have sparked widespread outrage among local residents and commercial drivers who rely on this vital transportation artery for their daily livelihood.
Reports indicate that some drivers have had to pay as much as N3,000 per trip, a steep increase compared to previous toll structures.
“We are barely making enough to cover our daily expenses. To be asked to pay such exorbitant fees is a heavy burden,” lamented one trailer driver caught in the protest.
Another commercial driver, refusing to be deterred from joining the demonstration, stated, “I’m traveling but I will stay here to stand with my people. This is about our survival.”
Community leaders have voiced concerns that the toll collection lacks transparency and accountability, accusing authorities of embezzling funds collected at these toll points.
“The government must stop extorting money from hardworking citizens who are already struggling due to the economic downturn,” said Mr. Odinaka, a prominent activist involved in organizing the protests.
The Ogun State Government implemented the new tollgate fees as part of a broader infrastructure funding initiative aimed at improving road maintenance and expansion.
However, the lack of prior consultation with stakeholders and the sudden hike in toll fees have been heavily criticized.
Residents argue that the costs are disproportionate to the services provided and fear the tolls will significantly increase transportation costs, further driving up the price of goods and services in the region.
In response to the protests, the Ogun State Ministry of Transport released a statement emphasizing the necessity of the tolls for sustaining ongoing road improvement projects.
The government has pledged to review the toll rates and improve transparency in the management of toll revenues.
Additionally, officials have promised to engage more actively with community leaders and transport unions to address their concerns.
Local authorities have also deployed additional security personnel to the affected areas to restore order and facilitate dialogue between protesters and government representatives.
So far, no reports of violence have been recorded, and talks are ongoing to find a mutually acceptable solution.
As the standoff continues, both residents and government officials appear committed to dialogue.
Community leaders have called for the establishment of a joint committee to oversee toll revenue and ensure funds are properly allocated toward road development projects.
Meanwhile, commuters are anxiously awaiting a resolution that balances infrastructural needs with their economic realities.
This protest highlights the growing tensions between infrastructural development and public welfare, a challenge faced by many rapidly developing regions in Nigeria.
