Tanker drivers operating along the Lekki-Epe corridor in Lagos State have announced their plans to cease loading petroleum products starting Monday, citing financial constraints related to the newly introduced E-Call Up system. The drivers argue that the N12,500 fee per truck is prohibitive, especially since they believe a lower fee of N2,500 would be more reasonable.

Recently, Lagos Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat explained that the E-Call Up system was implemented to regulate the movement of articulated vehicles and tankers, aiming to improve traffic flow and prevent the chronic gridlock that has plagued the Apapa area for years.

However, representatives of the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) expressed their disagreement with the fee. Yusuf Othman, NARTO President, stated in a brief interview on Sunday that the association is still engaged in discussions with the Lagos State Government. “The N12,500 is too high. We initially suggested N2,500 per truck. We are hopeful that an amicable resolution can be reached. But if the government insists on the higher fee, our members will refuse to load tomorrow,” he said.

Reacting to the situation, Olawale Musa, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, explained that the N12,500 fee is not a revenue-generating measure for the government. Instead, he clarified that the fee is intended to cover the use of facilities built specifically for drivers in the Lekki area, which are designed to reduce gridlock and environmental pollution. Musa emphasised that the facility was constructed by a private investor and urged the union and drivers to comply with regulations to prevent the Lekki-Epe corridor from experiencing a repeat of the old Apapa traffic chaos.

As negotiations continue, all eyes are on whether the drivers will follow through on their threat and how the government will respond to ensure smooth transportation and economic activities in the corridor.