Sudden Fare Hike Hits Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Commuters Amidst Religious Gathering Congestion

Commuters traversing the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway region have been left frustrated by an abrupt surge in transportation costs, attributed to commercial drivers serving Berger, Arepo, Magboro, Mowe, Ibafo, and neighboring stretches along the route.

Sources indicate that bus operators have escalated fares, citing the removal of fuel subsidies and the heightened influx towards the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. A passenger, Adewale, bemoaned paying N1,000 for a Berger to Magboro journey, a steep climb from the usual N400 fare.

Adewunmi, another traveler, shared her experience of a Ketu to Mowe fare normally priced at N500, surging to N700 on Thursday. She recounted the astonishment shared by fellow passengers at the sudden price jump, and concerns that the rates could elevate even further the following day.

The impact resonated further, as Joy, a passenger bound for Mowe from Oshodi, disclosed resorting to financial aid from home due to the unexpected fare adjustment. Expressing distress, she noted paying N1,300 for the trip, up from the usual N800 or N1,000.

The situation has become so burdensome that an unidentified passenger revealed plans to sleep at the RCCG Camp for the night due to the inability to sustain these mounting costs.

Delving into the perspective of a bus driver, Wale disclosed that surging demand and a surge in individuals heading to the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway were driving the price hike. He acknowledged the challenging economic climate and the need to adapt to survive.

Furthermore, observations by our reporters indicated a sizable influx of passengers en route to the Redemption Camp along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. This pilgrimage is in tandem with the ongoing Annual Convention of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, themed “Beyond Expectation.”

The religious gathering, however, contributed to significant traffic congestion, notably in areas such as Ojodu, Otedola, and adjoining routes. In light of this, the Lagos Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Babatunde Farinloye, attributed the gridlock to the religious activities transpiring along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

Farinloye elaborated, explaining the congestion was due to multiple church events, including the RCCG’s program and two other congregations holding simultaneous gatherings. The influx of attendees was overwhelming, prompting the engagement of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to assist in managing the situation.