The Lagos State Government has rejected claims by commercial minibus operators, popularly known as Korope drivers, that it plans to take over transport routes along the Lekki–Epe Expressway to accommodate buses allegedly linked to Seyi Tinubu.
The allegation surfaced after a protest by the drivers on Wednesday along the VGC axis, where they accused the government of attempting to push them out of the busy corridor.
The protest quickly drew attention on social media, fuelling speculation about political interference in the state’s transport reforms.
Responding to the claims, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transport, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, dismissed the allegations as unfounded and misleading.
He explained that the Lekki–Epe corridor has been redesignated as a Mass Transit and Regulated Transport Corridor under the state’s Bus Reform Initiative, BRI, stressing that the policy was not targeted at any individual or group.
“This transition is deliberate, data-driven and aligned with the state’s long-term vision of building a safer, more efficient and economically sustainable transport system,” Osiyemi said.
The commissioner noted that restrictions on unregulated Korope operations along the corridor were the outcome of extensive planning and stakeholder engagement, not a sudden policy shift.
According to him, the government carried out wide consultations with transport unions, route operators and relevant associations before enforcement began.
“Multiple consultations were held with transport unions, corridor operators and other stakeholders. Sensitisation programmes, public notices and structured notifications were issued well in advance to ensure operators were fully informed and prepared,” he added.
Osiyemi reaffirmed the commitment of the Lagos State Government to organised mass transit, improved traffic management and enhanced safety for road users along the Lekki–Epe Expressway.
He urged affected operators to comply with the regulatory framework guiding the corridor and explore opportunities within the formal transport system, noting that the reforms are designed to protect lives, property and the overall efficiency of the state’s transport network.
