By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
The Lagos State Government has announced plans to halt the operations of mini-buses, popularly known as korope, along major corridors across the state following severe traffic disruptions on the CMS–Lekki–Epe Expressway earlier this week.
The gridlock, which occurred on Tuesday and Wednesday, reportedly paralysed movement for several hours despite prior engagements between the government and transport operators.
Officials described the action by the operators as a violation of agreements previously reached with unions representing the drivers.
In a statement issued by the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, authorities explained that extensive consultations were held before the transport reforms were introduced on the Lekki–Epe corridor. The discussions involved the National Union of Road Transport Workers and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the state government, the Special Adviser on Transportation, Sola Giwa, said the protest undermines the Bus Reform Initiative, a programme aimed at restructuring public transportation on high-traffic routes.
He said the disruptions contravene agreements reached with the unions, adding that the government has consistently engaged stakeholders to ensure safe and efficient transportation for residents.
The reform initiative, first introduced in 2024, seeks to replace fragmented bus operations with high-capacity vehicles. It also reassigns korope buses to inner roads, introduces electronic ticketing, strengthens route regulation, and enhances security along the corridor.
At a stakeholders’ meeting held in June 2024, a formal framework for the reform was adopted by government officials and union leaders.
A follow-up meeting in December 2025 fixed December 8 as the commencement date for the first phase of the scheme.
The first phase covers major routes including Ajah–CMS/Obalende, Ajah–Oshodi, Ajah–Berger, and Ajah–Iyana Ipaja. Under the arrangement, a designated operator handles express services, while others provide regular stop services.
Only buses approved under the scheme are permitted to operate along the corridor. These vehicles bear the state’s blue-and-white colours, QR-coded PTCS stickers, unique identification numbers, and Touch and Pay labels. Drivers are also required to wear official ministry-issued identification badges.
The government stated that the measures are intended to enhance safety, improve passenger comfort, and ensure fare stability. It warned that enforcement of the new regulations will be firm and sustained, noting that while dialogue with stakeholders will continue, non-compliance will attract sanctions.
