The National Consortium on Public Accountability has urged the government to immediately review the recent increase in toll gate tariffs, citing concerns over its impact on citizens already facing economic challenges.

The consortium's statement comes after the Minister of Works and Public Assets, Dr. Dennis Sandi, announced a new tariff for vehicles and transportation machines using the tollgate. The consortium has criticized the move, describing it as "controversial" and "meaningless and inconsistent."

In a press release, the consortium stated that the new tariff has sparked widespread concerns among citizens, particularly those in the provinces and Western Rural areas. They argue that the timing of the proposed increase, which is set to take effect on March 1st, is inappropriate given the current economic hardships facing the country.

The consortium also raised questions about the transparency of the process, noting that the government has not consulted civil society organizations or the media on the matter. They argue that this lack of consultation is an attempt to undermine democratic principles in the country.

In light of these concerns, the consortium has made several recommendations to the government. They have called for the immediate suspension of the tariff increase until further notice. They also demand that civil society organizations be included in the review process of the toll gate agreement.

Furthermore, the consortium has urged the government to honor its promise to review the toll gate agreement, which was made during the 2017-2018 election campaign. They argue that the agreement, which was entered into by the previous APC government, is not in the nation's best interest and should be terminated.

The consortium also called for the sacking of the Minister of Works, Dr. Dennis Sandi, citing his incompetence in handling the toll gate issue. They argue that his failure to present a coherent case to the president and the people of Sierra Leone is unacceptable.

In addition, the consortium has demanded the completion of the four-lane highway project, which was part of the toll gate agreement. They argue that the China Railway Seventh Group (CRSG) has cheated the people of Sierra Leone by not completing the project as promised.

Finally, the consortium expressed concern over the extortion of fuel costs in the provinces, which they attribute to "selective forces" in the government. They argue that this will have a negative impact on the people and should be addressed immediately.

In conclusion, the consortium has called on the government to prioritize the welfare of its citizens and to take urgent action to address the toll gate issue. They argue that failing to do so will only deepen the suffering of the already burdened populace.