Stakeholders and Ogun State Government Clash Over Epe

Stakeholders Oppose Toll Charges:
Government Justifies Toll Implementation
Meeting Ends Without Resolution:

A high-level stakeholders’ meeting convened on Tuesday, April 30th, between representatives of the Ogun State Government and stakeholders from Epe, Lagos State, ended without a resolution as tension lingers over toll charges imposed on the Epe–Ijebu Ode

Ekohotblog reports that the meeting, held at Rolak Hotel & Suites in Imowo, Ijebu Ode, brought together a coalition group of concerned Epe residents, traditional representatives, transport union members, and government officials.

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It was prompted by public outrage over the recent toll collection instituted by Ogun State at Mojoda the border community between Epe and Ijebu Ode.

Motorists plying the newly reconstructed expressway are now charged tolls ranging from ₦1,000 for commercial vehicles, ₦1,500 for standard buses, and ₦2,500 for luxury buses and heavy trucks,applicable both ways.

In his address, a representative of the Ogun State Government acknowledged the concerns of Epe residents and appreciated their openness to dialogue.

He explained that the toll system was introduced as part of a contractual arrangement with the road contractor, emphasizing that the funds generated would be used for road maintenance and servicing of construction costs.

“The Epe–Ijebu Ode Road is a critical economic corridor,” he said. “The toll gate is designed to target heavy trucks from the Dangote Refinery and interstate buses, which contribute significantly to the wear and tear of the road.

We have also proposed alternative access routes through Isiwo and Itamapako to serve local communities. Furthermore, motorcycles and tricycles are exempt from toll fees.”

However, the explanation did not sit well with members of the Epe Coalition Committee, who described the policy as exploitative and insensitive.

Comrade Idris Tele-Olukoya, a key representative of the coalition, firmly rejected the toll imposition.

“At the time this road was constructed, the federal allocation stood at around one trillion naira. Today, it has tripled,” he said.

“We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for pushing infrastructure development, but Ogun State has a duty to prioritize the welfare of all users. Roads are not a luxury; they are a constitutional right.”

He also raised concerns about the economic impact of the toll on the everyday lives of Epe residents and traders.

“This toll will increase the cost of goods, food, and transport. It will damage trade ties between Lagos and Ogun States. On behalf of the good people of Epe, we say a complete NO to toll collection,” Tele-Olukoya declared.

Adding a political voice to the matter, Mr. Kaka Babatunde, who spoke on behalf of Hon. Wale Raji, the Member of the House of Representatives for Epe Federal Constituency, urged Ogun State to reconsider its pricing strategy.

“We are not opposed to development or road maintenance,” he noted. “However, the current toll charges are excessive. We urge the Ogun State Government to drastically reduce the rates to alleviate the economic burden on the people of Epe, who are the major users of this road.”