The Lagos State Government has defended its regulation of bus operations along the Lekki-Epe Expressway following protests by drivers who operate the small yellow buses popularly known as Korope.
Videos showing protesting drivers have been trending on social media for a couple of days, as the aggrieved drivers protest the ban on Korope buses along the route.
Reacting in a Tuesday statement, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transport, Sola Giwa, said the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation had been aware of the protest by operators of the Korope minibuses, which he said temporarily obstructed movement along the Lekki–Epe Expressway, particularly around the Ajah axis.
Giwa noted that the Lekki–Epe corridor had formally transitioned into a Mass Transit and Regulated Transport Corridor under the Bus Reform Initiative framework of the Lagos State Government.
He said the transition was deliberate, data-driven, and in alignment with the state’s long-term vision for a safer, more efficient, and economically viable transport ecosystem.
He added that the restriction of unregulated Korope operations on the expressway was not sudden, arbitrary, or targeted, stressing that stakeholder engagement preceded the enforcement.
Giwa said, “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.
“It is therefore unfortunate that, despite being fully aware of the policy direction and the regulatory position of the government, certain operators chose to disrupt public order by blocking a critical expressway that serves thousands of commuters daily. Such actions undermine public safety, economic productivity, and the collective progress of the corridor.
“The Lekki–Epe Expressway is a strategic economic artery linking residential, commercial, industrial, and maritime assets, including the Free Trade Zone. Allowing unregulated operations that compromise traffic flow, safety standards, and structured mass transit reforms would reverse the gains already recorded on the corridor.”
He commended the Lagos State Police Command for its “swift intervention in restoring normalcy.”
Giwa stressed that reforms under the Bus Reform Initiative are designed to improve safety, predictability, and dignity within the transport ecosystem.
“Lawful engagement remains welcome. However, disruption of public infrastructure will not be tolerated.”
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