Lagos rejects claims of handing Lekki–Epe routes to Seyi Tinubu’s buses
Lagos State Government has refuted claims by commercial minibus operators, popularly called Korope drivers, that it intends to seize transport routes along the Lekki–Epe Expressway to make way for buses linked to Seyi Tinubu.
The allegation followed a protest by the drivers on Wednesday at Block VGC Road, where they accused the government of moving to displace them from the corridor — an action that quickly gained traction on social media.
Reacting to the claims, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transport, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, dismissed the accusations as “false.”
He explained that the Lekki–Epe axis has officially been redesignated as a Mass Transit and Regulated Transport Corridor under the Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) of the Lagos State Government.
“This transition is deliberate, data-driven, and in alignment with the State’s long-term vision for a safer, more efficient, and economically viable transport ecosystem,” Osiyemi said.
The commissioner noted that the move to limit unregulated Korope operations was neither abrupt nor aimed at any particular group. According to him, the government carried out broad consultations before enforcement began. “Multiple consultations were held with transport unions, corridor operators, and relevant associations. Sensitisation exercises, public advisories, and structured notifications were issued well ahead of enforcement to ensure clarity and compliance,” he added.
Osiyemi reaffirmed the state’s resolve to promote organised mass transit, ensure orderly traffic management, and safeguard lives and property. “We urge all operators to align with the regulatory framework guiding the corridor and embrace structured participation within the formal transport system,” he said.
