Tanker drivers in Lagos State have announced their intention to halt the loading of petroleum products beginning on Monday due to concerns over the N12,500 fee per truck for the E-Call Up system operating along the Lekki-Epe Corridor.
The E-Call Up system, introduced by the Lagos State Government, is designed to manage the movement of articulated vehicles, including tankers. Its goal is to ensure smoother traffic and prevent congestion similar to issues previously seen in Apapa.
The state’s Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, recently reaffirmed that the system aims to foster order and efficiency in the transportation of heavy-duty vehicles.
National Association of Road Transport Owners members, NARTO, have voiced their discontent regarding the fee structure. The association says it can only afford a charge of N2,500 per truck, rather than the required N12,500.
On Sunday, NARTO President Yusuf Othman released a statement indicating that discussions with the Lagos State Government are underway. He stressed the association’s preference for the suggested initial N2,500 fee.
“For now, we are still negotiating with the Lagos State Government. The N12,500 is too high. We recommended N2,500 from the beginning. Let’s see how it goes and if we can reach an amicable resolution. But if the government does not agree, our boys will not go and load tomorrow,” Othman said.
The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Olawale Musa, clarified that the N12,500 fee is not intended for government revenue.
He explained that the fee funds the facilities created by a private investor to assist tanker operations in the Lekki area, which aim to prevent traffic congestion and environmental issues.
