By Suleiman Abubakar
The Nasarawa State House of Assembly has called for a significant reduction in toll gate fees across the state and the adoption of a single-payment system for road users on a trip. The lawmakers also advocated for a complete suspension of toll gate operations if the management fails to address the challenges faced by motorists.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Danladi Jatau, made the call during a legislative session in Lafia after Hon. Daniel Ogah Ogazi, representing Kokona East Constituency, raised the issue as a matter of public interest. The Assembly expressed concerns over the hardship caused by the toll system, particularly along the Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi road.
The lawmakers urged Governor Abdullahi Sule to engage the Federal Ministry of Works on the matter. They recommended introducing toll tickets at designated motor parks, improving e-payment options, and allowing cash payments for motorists without ATM cards.
Hon. Ogazi highlighted how inefficiencies in the automated toll system have led to long delays, traffic congestion, and even life-threatening situations. He recounted an incident where a woman gave birth at a toll gate due to prolonged waiting times.
Other lawmakers, including Hon. Hudu A. Hudu, Barr. Esson Mairiga, and Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Mohammad Adamu Oyanki, echoed similar concerns, emphasizing the negative impact on residents.
The Assembly warned that if the toll gate operators fail to implement necessary reforms, they would push for a complete suspension of toll operations in the state.
