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Lekki Residents Give Condition For Toll Gate Re-Opening
Residents of estates around Lekki have given the Lagos State government and Lekki Concession Company (LCC) some conditions for the re-opening of the Lekki tollgate plaza.
They did this under the aegis of Lekki Estates Residents and Stakeholders Association (LERSA).
These were contained in a statement issued by the association. The association comprises over 80 estates and communities.
The statement was signed by Olorogun James Emadoye and Mr Gbemi Adelekan, LERSA president and secretary-general respectively.
The residents urged the state government and managers of the road to provide viable alternative routes to the tolled roads.
They also asked for the implementation of round figure fees at the toll. Also asked for is the immediate improvement of the tolling system technology. This is to guarantee free flow at the toll gates before re-commencement.
LERSA observed that its members had been victims of insecurity and disruption of movement since the #ENDSARS protests in October. This has led to the destruction and eventual closure of the tollgate. It has also led to Saturday’s protest against the order for its reopening.
LERSA called on the government to tolerate free expression of discontent in a way that guarantees protection of lives and properties.
The association also called on LCC to create an enabling environment for people and businesses on the axis. He added that the experience of road users at the toll plazas before the shutdown was very unpleasant.
“Our road experience prior to the October 20 shutdown of the tollgates was that of hardship and suffering. This was due to the long traffic at the toll plazas. A tolled road is supposed to provide a quick, safe and motorable experience. Then users will be happy to pay for,” the statement said.
It added that the government, through LCC, should realise that toll plazas could not re-open and operate the way they were before the shutdown.
“Without a doubt, we are the only citizens in Nigeria that are forced to pay toll on a road that is less than 25km. This road was completed in 14 years. With the poor experience and services at the toll plaza, we are actually paying for inconveniences rather than for convenience. On the road, we spend, on the average, 20 to 30 minutes to pay.
We, therefore, ask for viable alternative roads to the tolled roads, implementation of round figure fees at the toll and immediate improvement of the tolling system technology to guarantee free flow at the toll gates before commencement of tolling,” the statement added.
