Vincent Toritseju
Lagos — Following the failure of the Electronic Call-Up system initiated by the Nigerian Ports Authority and the Transit Truck Parks to address the perennial traffic gridlock in and around the port access roads, the Council for Maritime Transport Union and Association called on the Lagos State Commissioner of Transportation, Mr. Seun Osiyemi to declare an emergency on the call up regime.
In a petition to the Minister, the President of the Council, Comrade Yinka Aroyewun said that the current traffic situation on the port corridor, has shown no signs of improvement.
Aroyewun also urged the Lagos State government to declare an emergency on the call-up regime in order to address the growing challenges and ensure a more efficient and transparent system.
He said: “It has come to our attention that the call-up system, which is intended to regulate traffic flow and reduce congestion on the port corridor, eradicate extortion is riddled with issues. One of the most troubling issues is the prevalence of call-up codes being sold to the highest bidder or being allocated based on favoritism and connections. Vehicles move in the direction of the port without call up documents ; code are bought barrier point. This unfair and corrupt practice undermines the purpose of the call-up system and perpetuates congestion and delays.
“The consequences of this dysfunctional call-up regime are manifold. First and foremost, it hampers economic activities by causing delays and disruptions in the movement of goods and materials through the ports. This not only impacts businesses but also has wider implications for the overall economic growth and development of Lagos State. Our members are suffering.
Furthermore, the inefficient and opaque call-up system also poses significant safety hazards. “The congestion on the port corridor has led to an increase in accidents, breakdowns, and incidents of violence as frustrated drivers and operators resort to desperate measures to navigate through the chaos. These incidents put the lives and well-being of drivers, operators, and other road users at risk. The continuous extortion, harassment, vandalism have not stopped.
“In light of the severity of the situation, we call upon the Lagos State government to declare an emergency on the call-up regime. This declaration should be accompanied by swift and decisive actions to address the flaws and shortcomings of the system.”
The COMTUA boss however suggested solutions to the failed call up system noting that conducting a comprehensive audit of the call-up system and identifying areas of improvement. Especially an audit of the approved parks and implementing a transparent and fair allocation process for call-up codes, ensuring that they are not sold or allocated based on favoritism.
“Strengthening enforcement and punitive measures against those engaged in corruption and illegal activities related to the call-up system, not excluding TTP personnel and officials.
“Engaging in regular dialogue and consultation with genuine stakeholders, including transport operators not necessarily those on the payroll of NPA/TTP falsely parading themselves and supported by corrupt government officials, to identify their challenges and needs and incorporate them into system improvements.
“Developing and implementing technology-based solutions, such as a real digital call-up system, to streamline and automate processes and reduce human interference not like the one we have now.
“By declaring an emergency on the call-up regime and undertaking these urgent actions, the Lagos State government can demonstrate its commitment to resolving the traffic crisis and ensuring the smooth functioning of the port corridor.
This will have far-reaching positive impacts on the economy, safety, and overall well-being of our members and Lagos residents.
“I respectfully urge the authorities to prioritize this matter and take immediate action. The situation on the port corridor demands urgent attention and a decisive response.”
