The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has demanded the immediate suspension of toll collection at four points on the Keffi–Akwanga–Lafia–Makurdi highway, warning that motorists could pay as much as N4,000 for a return journey while rising transport costs continue to squeeze household incomes.
The rights group said the multiple toll charges could further increase the cost of moving food and essential goods along one of North-Central Nigeria’s strategic agricultural corridors, with the burden ultimately falling on passengers, traders and consumers.
In a statement dated November 3, 2026, HURIWA National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to suspend collections pending an independent review of the tolling arrangement, the condition of the road and the efficiency of its payment system.
The association said the tolling system, which commenced on February 4, 2025, covers four principal locations along the 227.2-kilometre highway linking Abuja, Keffi, Akwanga, Lafia and Makurdi.
Under the published rates cited by HURIWA, saloon cars pay N500 at each toll point, SUVs and jeeps N800, minibuses and light buses N1,000, while trucks, buses and multi-axle vehicles pay N1,600.
A saloon car passing through all four toll points could therefore pay N2,000 one way and N4,000 on a return journey, assuming charges apply at every plaza in both directions.
HURIWA argued that the cumulative cost was excessive for motorists already contending with fuel prices, vehicle repairs, spare parts and other operating expenses.
The group warned that commercial operators could transfer the additional costs to passengers and consumers through higher fares and commodity prices.