Reverse Lekki toll charges, SERAP urges Ambode

SERAP, in a statement by its Executive Director, Adetokunbo Mumuni, on Sunday, said the increase in toll charges conflicts with the goals of the Lagos State government to provide basic public services to citizens and residents. The statement read in part, “This latest increase in toll charges at the Lekki-Epe Expressway and Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge toll gates is unacceptable, as it conflicts with the goals and commitment of the government to provide basic public services to citizens and residents. “It seems the agreement between the government and the Lekki Concession Company is no longer serving the needs of citizens and residents. “It’s time for Ambode to ensure and maintain a balance between the needs of the citizens and residents of Lagos State and the LCC. “The authorities should respect and protect the right of protesters to demonstrate against the hike in toll charges and to voice their opinion.” The group added, “In the face of rising poverty and economic inequalities across the country, the government should be considering eliminating toll charges rather than allowing the LCC to get away with overcharging citizens and residents and prioritising profits over the public interests. “Unless the situation is satisfactorily resolved in the public interests, the government runs the risk of being viewed as beholden to special interests and out of touch with the public good.” The new rates for the toll charges at the Lekki-Epe Expressway and Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge toll gates were implemented February 1 by the LCC, managers of the road.]]>