After Lagos Traffic Chaos, FG Orders Reopening of Independence Bridge

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has directed the immediate reopening of the Independence Bridge located on Victoria Island, Lagos.

The minister issued the directive on Wednesday following the massive traffic gridlock that enveloped the Ikoyi area of Lagos.

The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs Olukorede Kesha, in a statement, said “The Ministry expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to the motoring public by the closure and appealed for their understanding and cooperation.

“The Federal Ministry of Works clarified that the necessary repair works on the bridge would be carried out at a later time.”

Recall that the federal government had announced plans to close the Independence Bridge (Marina bound) in Lagos State for essential maintenance and rehabilitation works. It said the bridge would remain closed until the end of May 2025

However, Lagosians spend several hours in the traffic on Wednesday following the closure of the bridge.

A motorist, Mr Gbenga Aduloju, who lamented over the development said: “I left Island at 2 pm to exit the Island from Victoria Island. As of 4 pm, I was still stranded in traffic. Is this how we will suffer for two months? We are in for a long show. I learned both the Federal and State Governments are responsible for this. They should do something fast to alleviate this suffering before it is hijacked by hoodlums and undesirable elements.”

A commercial driver also voiced his concerns, saying: “They should allow us to use a one-way. The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, should support one-way driving at this point. We can’t take it anymore. All alternative roads should be opened.”