2nd September, 2010
A suit instituted against the Lagos State Government and four others over the new toll gate along Lekki-Epe expressway by a human rights activist, Barrister Ebun Adegboruwa, has been adjourned.
In an affidavit sworn to by Adegboruwa, who is not only a resident of Lekki-Ajah, but also a community leader in the area, he is urging the court to order the dismantling of the toll points termed Admiralty Circle Plaza as well as restraining the Lagos State Government and its agents from collecting any toll or levy at the toll points.
Joined as co-defendants are Lekki Consession Company Limited, Lagos Works Management Board, the Attorney-General of Lagos State and Eti Osa Local Government.
Barrister Adegboruwa averred that as one of the residents whose house, law office and church are located in the area, the toll gate, apart from the hardship it will cause, will also hinder free flow of traffic and free movement of goods and services.
He averred further that roads have been constructed in other areas of the state like Okota, Ajose Adeogun, Kudirat Abiola Way, Oregun without toll gates erected.
In a bid to ensure the compulsory payment of the toll gate levies, all the community’s outlets, companies and other business concerns along the road have been fenced off.
The claimant also averred that the Lagos State Government is duty bound to provide adequate facilities for the mobility of the people, goods and services throughout the state, adding that residents of the community were not consulted before the toll gates were constructed.
He said that there is currently no law in existence made by the Lagos State House of Assembly authorising the collection of tolls on public highways.