As public discontent continues to mount over the recently introduced toll charges on the Epe/Ijebu-Ode Expressway, the Aladeshonyin of Noforija Kingdom, kakalistiq.com reports that HRM Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja JP FMBE, has added his influential voice to the growing chorus of concerned residents, calling for a “fair and economically viable resolution” to the matter.
In a phone interview on Thursday, the respected monarch expressed appreciation to both the Ogun and Lagos State Governments for their commitment to infrastructure development, particularly the reconstruction of the Epe-Ijebu-Ode Expressway.
However, he emphasized that affordability must remain at the heart of any public service, especially in areas like Epe that are largely populated by local traders, artisans, and small-scale entrepreneurs.
“Epe is not Lekki or Victoria Island,” Oba Ogunlaja said firmly, underscoring the socioeconomic contrast between residents of the highbrow Lagos districts and those living or doing business along the Epe-Ijebu Ode corridor.
Current toll rates stand at ₦1,000 for cars and ₦2,000 for trucks, figures many commuters describe as not only excessive but also likely to increase the cost of living. The monarch warned that such rates could further marginalize hardworking residents whose livelihoods rely heavily on affordable transportation.
Positioning himself as both a traditional ruler and a stakeholder in the socioeconomic development of Lagos and Ogun States, Oba Ogunlaja offered a practical alternative:
“It is better to pay ₦1,000 per day rather than to pay per trip. Many of our people move goods and services back and forth between communities. Charging them per trip will make transportation unsustainable.”
Oba Ogunlaja, widely respected for his philanthropy and balanced political voice, also appealed to the governments of Lagos and Ogun States, as well as the private firm managing the toll operations, to engage in meaningful dialogue that puts the welfare of the people first.
He said that while tolling may be necessary for road maintenance and sustainability, it must not be at the expense of the people it is meant to serve. He stressed that the toll must be reviewed to reflect the economic realities of Epe residents and other regular users of the road.
“We must protect the economic lifelines of our traders, our transporters, and our community at large. This toll fee, in its current form, poses a serious threat to that. A reduction to a more reasonable rate will go a long way in ensuring harmony, sustainability, and inclusive growth,” he concluded.
