Amid mounting public dissatisfaction over the newly introduced toll rates on the Epe/Ijebu-Ode Expressway, kakalistiq.com reports that Rep. Wale Raji, who represents Epe Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has stepped in to calm tensions and push for a review of the charges.
The lawmaker made his position known to the Pressmen today during the commissioning of 18 classrooms in the constituency, where he was met with a wave of concern from constituents over what many describe as “exorbitant and burdensome” toll rates at the Mojoda toll gate in Epe.
According to current toll figures, motorists are being asked to pay ₦1,000 for cars and ₦2,000 for trucks; a policy that has triggered sharp criticism from road users, particularly small business owners and commercial drivers, who fear the toll will drive up transportation costs and the prices of goods.
While acknowledging the quality of infrastructure delivered through the efforts of both Lagos and Ogun State governments, Rep. Raji stressed the importance of making such developments economically accessible to the very people they were meant to serve.
“While the efforts are commendable, we also equally need to look at the purpose of constructing the road, which is to enhance the welfare of the people of the two states. Therefore, any action or decision that would be counterproductive needs to be looked into,” he said.
The lawmaker added, “I am of the view, just like it has been expressed generally, that the proposed toll is on the high side and it needs to be reconsidered in view of the economic situation of the country in view of the rising and falling price of PMS.”
He went further to highlight the ripple effects such charges could have on everyday Nigerians:
“If you combine that with the proposed toll, the consequences will be the increase in the price of goods and services because many of those who use the roads are businessmen and women, traders, and they will pass on the increase in their cost of production to the ultimate consumers which will increase the prices of goods and services. I’m assured the intention of the Ogun State Government is not to impose hardship on the people of the two states.”
Calling for a proactive solution, he said, “I will also join in appealing to the Ogun State Government to review the toll. On our own part, we’ll look at possible legislative steps towards appealing to the authorities for the review of the toll.”
While reaffirming his commitment to advocating for his constituents’ welfare, Rep. Raji urged calm and constructive engagement from the public.
“Let us protect our infrastructure while we press for a just outcome. Acts of vandalism will only hurt the same communities we seek to uplift,” he appealed.
