The Nasarawa State House of Assembly has called on the management of toll gate operations in the state to reduce toll fees, following the hardship faced by road users.

Danladi Jatau, the speaker of the House, made the call after Daniel Ogazi (APC Kokona East) raised the issue as a matter of public interest during the House proceedings on Monday in Lafia.

The speaker also urged the toll gate management to improve its services if it intends to continue operations in the state.

According to him, the N500 and N800 charges, among others, imposed by the toll gate operator are too high.

“I am happy with your positive contributions, as our people are suffering as a result of the payment system at the toll gate.

“We want to appeal to His Excellency, Engr. A. A. Sule, to go to the Ministry of Works with the following resolutions.

“We want the management of toll gates to make provision for toll tickets in designated motor parks and other places for easy payment.

“We want them to provide an alternative method of payment, as some of our people don’t have ATM cards.

“Captured vehicles can make cash payments. There should be an option for cash payment at the toll gates.

“Payment at the toll gate should be made once instead of requiring payment at every toll gate along the route,” Mr Jatau said.

He further stated that if the toll gate management fails to ensure effective and efficient operations or comply with the resolutions, the House would call for the suspension of its operations in the state.

Mr Jatau commended President Bola Tinubu and the Ministry of Works for their efforts in providing roads and other infrastructure in the country.

The speaker also appreciated Governor Abdullahi Sule for his developmental strides and other services to the people of the state.

Earlier, Mr Ogazi, the member representing Kokona East Constituency, while moving the motion, said that the toll gate operations have caused and continue to cause hardship for road users.

He called for the suspension of toll gate operations in the state if the management fails to address the challenges faced by road users.

“This toll gate has created traffic jams, and our people are suffering as a result of the payment system. The automated tolling payment system is not working effectively and efficiently.

“They should organise payments at the toll gate in a way that does not negatively impact the lives of our people,” said Mr Ogazi.

Mr Ogazi also suggested that there should be a cash payment system at the toll gate, similar to what is done at airports.

Members who spoke all lamented how the toll gate operations are negatively affecting the lives of road users. 

(NAN)