Tensions are escalating across communities along the Ijebu-Ode–Mojoda–Epe road corridor following the recent imposition of toll charges by the Ogun State Government. Stakeholders from the Epe Division in Lagos State have condemned the move, citing economic hardship, lack of consultation, and ongoing silence from Ogun State authorities despite prior engagements.
The route in question spans from Fari Expressway in Ijebu-Ode to Mojoda, which connects directly to Epe in Lagos. While the Lagos State Government had earlier completed a high-quality road from Epe to Mojoda during the administration of former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, the final 14.7km segment from Mojoda to Ijebu-Ode was completed by the Ogun State Government under Governor Dapo Abiodun.
To the surprise of local residents and commuters, toll charges were suddenly introduced on this newly completed segment without any formal public notice. The toll rates are as follows:
Cars and standard buses: ₦1,000
Mini buses: ₦1,500
Trucks and trailers: ₦2,500
This sudden imposition has drawn sharp criticism and led to emergency consultations among Epe stakeholders. Following growing agitation, a stakeholders’ meeting was convened on April 30, 2025, at Rolak Hotel, Ijebu-Ode. The Coalition of Epe Division Groups was among several delegations that presented strong opposition to the tolling policy and submitted a formal communique to the Ogun State Government.
Despite assurances during the meeting that the state government would revert with a position within seven days, no response has been received to date.
“The Ogun State Government pleaded for time, but several weeks have passed and nothing has been heard. The continued silence is both disappointing and disrespectful,” a coalition spokesperson stated.
In response, community leaders and civil society groups have announced plans for a peaceful protest scheduled for Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 6:00 AM, with participants expected to converge at Mojoda Garage—the critical junction between Ogun and Lagos States.
Organizers say the protest is intended to amplify their demand for fairness, transparency, and public dialogue on infrastructure-related decisions that affect local livelihoods.
To support their claims and inform the public, the coalition will release the following documents in the coming days:
The communique submitted at the April 30 stakeholders’ meeting
Open letters to the Presidency and Ogun State Government
Other relevant correspondence and evidence
Efforts to obtain comments from Ogun State Government officials remain unsuccessful as of press time.
You will remember, the Ijebu-Ode–Mojoda–Epe road is a key regional corridor serving thousands of commuters daily. While its completion represents a major infrastructural milestone, the tolling policy has become a flashpoint for debate over public engagement, economic equity, and inter-state cooperation.