The Federal Government has announced plans to sanction the Lagos Controller of Works, Olukorede Kesha, for unilaterally closing the Independence Bridge in Lagos without proper authorization. This decision follows widespread criticism and severe traffic congestion that resulted from the bridge’s closure, which was intended for maintenance and rehabilitation.
Background of the Closure
On April 1, 2025, the Independence Bridge, a critical artery connecting Victoria Island to other parts of Lagos, was closed for repairs. The closure was announced by Kesha, who stated that the bridge would remain shut until the end of May 2025 due to structural issues. However, the decision was made without informing the Minister of Works, David Umahi, or obtaining the necessary ministerial clearance.
Impact on Lagos Traffic
The sudden closure of the bridge led to chaotic traffic conditions across Lagos Island. Commuters faced hours-long delays, with some stuck in traffic for over 12 hours. The situation was exacerbated by heavy rainfall in Victoria Island, which further congested alternative routes. Many Lagosians resorted to using ferries or alternative modes of transportation to bypass the gridlock, while others expressed frustration over the lack of adequate traffic management measures.
Government Response
In response to the public outcry, Minister Umahi faulted Kesha for the unauthorized closure, emphasizing that such decisions require ministerial approval. He acknowledged the need for urgent repairs but criticized the manner in which the closure was executed, stating that it caused unnecessary hardship for commuters. Umahi directed that the bridge be reopened temporarily to alleviate traffic congestion while palliative works were underway to ensure the bridge’s motorability.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu visited the site to assess the situation and apologized for the inconvenience caused. He explained that the structural integrity of the bridge had deteriorated significantly, necessitating immediate intervention. Sanwo-Olu announced plans to clean up alternative routes and deploy additional traffic officers to manage the flow of vehicles during the repair period.
Sanctions and Disciplinary Actions
Umahi warned that disciplinary actions would be taken against Kesha and any other officials who unilaterally close roads or bridges without proper clearance. He emphasized that all such decisions must be routed through the Permanent Secretary, who would then seek ministerial approval. This directive aims to prevent similar disruptions in the future and ensure that the public is adequately informed and prepared for infrastructure maintenance.
Traffic Management Efforts
To mitigate the impact of the bridge closure, the Lagos State Government Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu apologized to Lagosians for the inconvenience caused by the bridge closure, acknowledging that more could have been done to communicate the situation to residents. He emphasized that the repairs were necessary to prevent a potential disaster but recognized the need for better communication, in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), has deployed significant resources to manage traffic. Over 600 LASTMA officers and 100 FRSC personnel have been assigned to ensure smooth traffic flow around the affected areas The governor directed that alternative routes be cleaned up to facilitate easier passage for motorists. This includes ensuring that these routes are free from debris and obstructions, which can exacerbate traffic conditions. Additionally, a special ‘Night-Gang’ squad has been created to manage evening traffic operations.
Conclusion
The unauthorized closure of the Independence Bridge highlights the challenges of coordinating infrastructure maintenance in densely populated urban areas like Lagos. While the need for repairs is acknowledged, the manner in which the closure was executed underscores the importance of communication and coordination between government agencies. As the Federal Government moves to sanction the Lagos Controller of Works, it also emphasizes the need for a more structured approach to managing such projects to minimize public inconvenience and ensure public safety.
