By Segun Fatuase
Lekki Concession Company Limited (LCC) has announced the formal return to tolling operations today, (Friday, April 1, 2022) at the Ikoyi Link Bridge Toll Plaza.
However, toll payment will not commence until 16th April 2022.
This is coming on the heels of heated protest by Lekki Estate Residents and Stakeholders Association who are resisting the move by the Lekki Concession Company Limited to recommence tolling at the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the firm, Yemi Omomuwasan, announced this through a statement on Thursday, March 31, 2022.
According to the statement, the decision to resume operations was as a result of fruitful engagements and discussion with key stakeholders in the Lekki/Eti Osa axis.
The statement said further that, “LCC has been a worthy part of the Eti-Osa/ Lekki-Epe ecosystem and has served the community relentlessly and to the best of its ability over the years. We are encouraged by the response and the cooperation received from the vast majority of residents and stakeholders who appreciate the value we bring to bear on their daily movement and continue to register for (or update ) their toll accounts in readiness for the commencement of cashless toll collection. All the points made at the engagements are well taken.
“Whilst LCC is aware of the concerns expressed by some stakeholders regarding the return to tolling, it is common knowledge that the government cannot, on its own, meet all the infrastructural needs of the ever-growing population.
“Given that the funding for the project was secured by the initial private sector sponsors and contracts were signed with various local and international financial institutions, in the spirit of respecting the sanctity of contracts, the Lagos State Government continues to meet these obligations when it bought over the shares of LCC, thereby taking over both the assets and liabilities.
“To ensure a smooth return, LCC has deployed new and more efficient technology at the Ikoyi Bridge Toll Plaza. Therefore, to test run the new system and ensure a seamless interface with road users, the first two weeks will be completely toll – free.
LCC remains committed to providing a safer and better driving experience on the Ikoyi Link Bridge.