In a swift move aimed at alleviating the traffic nightmare that has gripped Lagos, David Umahi, the Federal Minister of Works, has directed the immediate reopening of the Independence Bridge on Victoria Island.
This decision comes after a series of disruptions caused by the previously announced closure for essential maintenance.
The closure, initially announced on Monday by Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, was meant to facilitate vital repairs and rehabilitation work.
The bridge had been slated to remain closed until the end of May, causing significant traffic disruptions for commuters heading from Ahmadu Bello Way, Adeola Odeku, and areas leading toward Marina, Eko Bridge, and Onikan.
The closure led to an overwhelming traffic gridlock, with motorists finding themselves trapped in hours-long delays, some stuck for over four hours in heavy congestion.
However, in an unexpected turn of events, Minister Umahi intervened with a statement on Wednesday evening, instructing that the bridge be reopened immediately.
Read Also: Abuja: Tanker explosion rocks Karu Bridge, many cars burnt
While the bridge will resume normal traffic flow for the time being, Umahi assured that necessary repairs will still be carried out at a later date.
He emphasised that palliative measures are already in place to ensure the bridge remains passable for vehicles during this interim period.
In his statement, the minister expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to commuters and urged the public to remain patient and cooperative while the necessary works are completed.
This swift action by the Ministry of Works aims to restore normalcy to one of Lagos’ busiest transportation hubs, providing much-needed relief to the city’s drivers.
