By Abiola Olawale
A storm is brewing in Nigeria as the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) has instructed its members at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Africa’s largest crude processing facility, to suspend loading operations.
The leadership of the NARTO called on tanker drivers loading at Dangote Refinery to down their tools in protest against the enforcement of what it called the E-call-up system at the Lekki Port corridor by the Lagos State Government.
The New Diplomat reports that this has raised fears of an imminent fuel scarcity across Lagos and the South-West.
In a memo signed by NARTO President, Mr. Yusuf Lawal Othman, the association expressed strong opposition to the N12,500 fee imposed for the E-call-up service, which the Lagos Government is implementing in league with Call-Up Technologies Limited.
Othman disclosed that NARTO had proposed a payment of N2,500 per truck, instead of the N12,500 charge being demanded. He added that despite several engagements with relevant stakeholders, no consensus has been reached on the fee structure.
Part of the Memo dated June 14, 2025, reads: “This is to formally address the recent directive issued by the Lagos State Government regarding the commencement of the N12,500 e-call-up system for trucks operating along the Lekki-Epe corridor.
“Despite our continued effort and engagement, we have not reached a consensus with the relevant authorities on our proposed N2,500 per truck charge, which we believe is more equitable and reflective of the current economic realities.
“In light of this unresolved issue, effective from June 16, 2025, all transporters are strongly advised to instruct their depot representatives to suspend the programming of trucks for movement along the Lekki-Epe Corridor until a mutually agreeable resolution is achieved.
“We appreciate your cooperation and urge all members to remain united and vigilant as we continue to engage the Lagos State Government in pursuit of a fair and sustainable outcome.”
