Angry residents took to the streets on Saturday morning, blocking the Ijebu-Ode–Mojoda–Epe Road in protest against new tollgate charges recently introduced by the Ogun State Government.
The demonstrators used tires and wooden planks to barricade the busy dual carriageway, causing significant traffic disruption and leaving hundreds of passengers stranded along the route.
The protest, which began along the Fari Expressway, quickly spread toward Mojoda in Epe, Lagos State. Protesters were observed chanting solidarity songs while displaying placards to express their grievances.
A trailer driver who spoke to reporters expressed frustration over the financial burden imposed by the new charges. "I paid N3000 just this early morning. How much are we making that they want to collect everything from us?" he lamented, highlighting concerns that the increased toll fees are severely impacting transportation businesses.
Another commercial driver identified as Mr. Odinaka voiced his support for the protest despite being in transit. "I am traveling but I will stay here and join them to protest. They have to stop embezzling money from the poor citizens of Nigeria who are struggling to survive," he stated.
The Ijebu-Ode–Epe Expressway serves as a vital transportation corridor connecting Ogun and Lagos states, with numerous commercial vehicles and private motorists using the route daily.
As of the time of reporting, authorities had not issued an official response to the protesters' demands. The demonstration continues to affect movement along the expressway, with no immediate resolution in sight.
This protest comes amid growing concerns about the rising cost of transportation and living expenses across Nigeria, with citizens increasingly vocal about economic hardships.
