Angry residents and commercial drivers barricaded the Ijebu-Ode–Mojoda–Epe Road on Saturday morning to protest against new tollgate charges recently introduced by the Ogun State Government.

The protesters used tires and wooden planks to block the busy dual carriageway, causing significant traffic disruption and leaving hundreds of passengers stranded along the route.

The demonstration, which began along the Fari Expressway, quickly spread towards 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 lamented 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 questioned, highlighting the economic strain on transport operators.

Another commercial driver, identified as Mr. Odinaka, expressed solidarity with the protesters despite being on a journey. "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–Mojoda–Epe Road serves as a crucial link between Ogun and Lagos states, facilitating significant commercial activities and interstate travel. The implementation of new tollgate charges has evidently struck a nerve among regular users of the expressway, particularly commercial drivers whose livelihoods depend on affordable transportation costs.

As of the time of reporting, authorities had not issued an official response to the protesters' demands. The situation continues to develop, with traffic flow severely affected in both directions of the expressway.

This protest adds to growing concerns about the cost of living and transportation expenses across Nigeria, where citizens continue to grapple with economic challenges.