There was chaos along the Ijebu-Ode–Mojoda–Epe Road on Saturday morning as angry residents and road users staged a protest against new toll charges introduced by the Ogun State Government.
The protest, which began early in the day, saw protesters blocking the busy dual carriageway with tires, wood, and other materials. The blockage left hundreds of commuters and motorists stranded for hours along the ever-busy route, which connects Ogun and Lagos States.
The demonstration stretched from the Fari Expressway and extended towards Mojoda in Epe, Lagos State, causing heavy traffic and disrupting both commercial and private transportation.
Protesters held placards and chanted solidarity songs, demanding the immediate reversal of the toll fees. Many of them expressed frustration over what they described as an unfair and sudden increase in charges that is affecting their already difficult economic situation.
A trailer driver who spoke to reporters during the protest lamented the high cost of using the road under the new toll system.
“I paid ₦3,000 just this morning. How much are we even making? They want to collect everything from us,” the driver said angrily.
Another commercial bus driver, who had passengers waiting, also joined the protest, saying he supported the action fully.
“I’m supposed to be on my way, but I’ll stay here and protest with them. Government needs to stop collecting money from the poor all the time while the rich are enjoying,” he said.
Many of the protesters accused the Ogun State Government of failing to consider the hardship ordinary Nigerians are facing. They said the new tollgate fees, which were introduced without proper consultation, are hurting transport workers and passengers alike.
“They’re just enriching themselves at our expense,” one protester said. “The roads are bad in many places, and now they want to take more money from us for what?”
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official response from the Ogun State Government. Security agents were seen monitoring the situation from a distance, but there were no immediate attempts to disperse the crowd.
The Ijebu-Ode–Mojoda–Epe Road is a key transport route linking Ogun and Lagos States. It is frequently used by commercial drivers, traders, and travelers moving between the two states and beyond.
In recent years, toll collection has become a controversial issue across Nigeria, as governments seek new ways to generate revenue. However, many citizens argue that tolls should not be increased without improving the quality of the roads and involving the public in decision-making.
Saturday’s protest adds to growing public unrest over rising living costs, fuel prices, and insecurity in different parts of the country.
