Lagos enforces ban on ‘Korope’ along CMS–Lekki–Epe corridor, cites breach of reform pact

The Lagos State Government has explained the rationale behind its decision to ban the operation of ‘korope’ mini buses along the busy CMS–Lekki–Epe Expressway, accusing some operators of violating agreements reached with transport unions and disrupting traffic flow on the corridor.

In a statement issued by the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, the government condemned the blockage of traffic along the CMS–Lekki–Epe route by certain mini-bus operators on Tuesday, February 17, and Wednesday, February 18, 2026. The action, it said, contravened earlier understandings aimed at restructuring public transport operations along the axis.

The ministry disclosed that prior to the rollout of reforms, the government held extensive consultations with the two major transport unions — the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) — to ensure a seamless transition to a more regulated system.

Speaking on behalf of the state government, the Special Adviser on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, described the protests and traffic obstruction as a setback to ongoing reforms under the Bus Reform Initiative (BRI).

“Such disruptions go against the agreements we made with the unions. The government has worked closely with all stakeholders to provide safe and efficient transportation for Lagos residents. We strongly encourage all operators to comply with the reform in the interest of commuters and the state,” Giwa said.

The Bus Reform Initiative, first tabled in 2024, is designed to overhaul public transportation on major routes across the state, beginning with the Lekki–Epe corridor.

The initiative seeks to deploy high-capacity buses, relocate korope and other mini-buses to inner arterial roads, introduce electronic ticketing, regulate bus operations, and strengthen security infrastructure along the route.

At a stakeholders’ meeting held on June 27, 2024, a formal agreement outlining the framework for the reform was endorsed by Giwa, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, and state leaders of NURTW and RTEAN. The agreement underscored the need for cooperation and compliance from all operators.

READ ALSO: Six vehicles crash on Eko Bridge, kill 2 die, injure 5

A subsequent meeting on December 2, 2025, fixed December 8, 2025, as the official take-off date for the reform’s first phase.

The initial implementation covers four major routes: Ajah–CMS (Marina)/Obalende, Ajah–Oshodi, Ajah–Berger, and Ajah–Iyana Ipaja.

Under the new structure, a designated operator provides express services while others run regular stop services along the corridor.

Participating buses must conform to the standard Lagos blue-and-white colour scheme and are fitted with QR codes embedded in PTCS verification stickers, unique identification numbers, and Touch and Pay (TAP) payment systems. Drivers are also mandated to display official Ministry of Transportation identification badges to enhance transparency and commuter confidence.

Giwa reiterated that the state remains committed to formalising transport operations, improving passenger comfort, enhancing safety standards, and maintaining fare stability.

“The success of this initiative depends on the cooperation of all transport operators. The state remains determined to protect commuters’ interests and ensure that Lagos continues to operate as a safe and efficient transport city,” he said.

The government added that while dialogue with stakeholders will continue, strict enforcement of the Bus Reform Initiative will be sustained, warning that acts of non-compliance or traffic disruption will not be tolerated.