Esther Oritse
Lagos — The Council of Maritime Transport Unions and Associations (COMTUA) has raised alarm over looming unrest at Lagos ports due to alleged toll collection by the Lagos State Truck and Cargo Operators Committee (LASTCOC), despite ongoing litigation regarding the committee’s legitimacy.
In a petition addressed to the Lagos State Government, COMTUA National President, Comrade Yinka Aroyewun, urged LASTCOC to limit its toll collection to its members and desist from compelling non-members to pay. He accused the Ministry of Transportation of enabling illegality and extortion through illicit payments, warning that the situation could spiral into a breakdown of law and order if not addressed.
Aroyewun expressed concern over a letter from the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, signed by Engr. O.M. Ojowuro, which stated that LASTCOC was authorized to oversee trucking operations and collect “harmonized tickets.” He emphasized that these claims are under litigation in the Lagos State High Court, citing suit number LD/7859GCM/2024, and called the actions contemptuous.
The petition further revealed that LASTCOC and the Allied Maritime Transport Operators (AMATO) sought approval to generate “voluntary revenue” through the Nexus Association of Maritime Transport Operators. However, COMTUA insists this does not justify imposing tolls or dues on all truckers.
Aroyewun highlighted an existing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) prohibiting road toll collection, accusing officials of compromising the agreement for personal gain. He warned that persistent disregard for the rule of law, double taxation, and forced representation could lead to severe resistance.
“We have repeatedly advised against double taxation and the Ministry’s imposition of representation on our members,” Aroyewun stated. “Continued violations of the law will not go unchallenged.”
The petition was copied to key stakeholders, including the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, and the Commissioner for Transportation. COMTUA called on the state government to act swiftly to avert potential unrest.
