LASG Condemns Lekki–Epe Expressway Blockade by Korope Operators, Reaffirms Commitment to Bus Reform Initiative
The Lagos State Government has condemned the blockage of the busy CMS–Lekki–Epe Expressway by some mini-bus operators, popularly known as Korope, describing the action as a violation of earlier agreements reached with transport unions on the implementation of the Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) along the Lekki–Epe corridor.
The government expressed deep concern over the disruption caused on Tuesday, February 17, and Wednesday, February 18, 2026, noting that the protest undermines resolutions jointly adopted after extensive stakeholder engagements with the National Union of Road Transport (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN).
According to the state authorities, discussions on restructuring public transport operations along the Lekki–Epe corridor commenced in 2024. At a stakeholders’ meeting held on June 27, 2024, a communiqué was endorsed by the Special Adviser on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation; and the state chairmen of both unions.
Key resolutions from the meeting included the restructuring of existing bus operations, deployment of high-capacity buses in line with the Lagos State Transport Policy and Bus Route Network (BRN), reallocation of Korope minibuses to inner arterial routes, introduction of an electronic ticketing system, and improved regulation and standardization of operations to enhance commuter safety and service delivery.
At a subsequent meeting on December 2, 2025, stakeholders unanimously agreed that the new bus scheme would commence on December 8, 2025.
The first phase of the reform, which will eventually extend to Epe, is set to operate on the Ajah–CMS (Marina)/Obalende, Ajah–Oshodi, Ajah–Berger, and Ajah–Iyana Ipaja routes.
During the meeting chaired by Hon. Giwa, Special Adviser on Transportation to Governor , it was clarified that one operator would run an express service, while other operators would provide stop-and-pick services along the corridor.
The Special Adviser reiterated that the government has continued to engage stakeholders to fully formalise transit operations across the state, with emphasis on improved commuter comfort, enhanced security, safety, and fare stability.
Buses under the new scheme will bear the standard Lagos State blue-and-white regulated colour scheme. They will also feature active QR codes embedded in PTCS stickers for verification, unique identification codes, and Touch and Pay (TAP) stickers, while drivers will display official Ministry of Transportation badges to ensure accountability and boost public confidence.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a safe, orderly, and efficient transportation system, urging all operators to comply with the agreed reforms in the overall interest of commuters and the state.
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