The closure of Independence Bridge, a key route linking Victoria Island to other parts of Lagos, has sparked widespread anger and frustration among residents and commuters. The Federal Government’s decision to shut down the bridge for maintenance has led to unbearable traffic congestion, leaving motorists and road users stranded for hours.
On the second day of the closure, major connecting roads in the area became virtually impassable, turning the daily commute into a nightmare for many. Numerous Lagosians took to social media, particularly X (formerly Twitter), to vent their frustrations, criticizing both the Federal and Lagos State governments for failing to provide adequate alternative routes or effective traffic management plans.
Public Outcry Over Poor Planning and Lack of Traffic Control
Many residents accused the government of making sudden decisions without proper public announcements or alternative arrangements. Motorists lamented the absence of traffic management officials, including personnel from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the police, to control the chaotic situation.
An X user, Dolapo Klasick (@KlasickTheHost), wrote:
“You guys don’t even rate the residents of Lagos. You think you can just do anything at any time without informing the public. Tomorrow, you’ll wake up and inconvenience citizens again without warning.”
Another user, The People’s Lawyer (@DpeopleLawyers), demanded immediate and practical solutions rather than apologies:
“Lagosians need action, not excuses. Repairs should be done at night or on weekends to minimize disruptions. There should also be a clear repair schedule with regular public updates.”
A third user, Anunu Ebe (@izzy_mbonu), criticized the lack of foresight, contrasting it with past administrations:
“Former Governor Ambode built a new bridge in a busy Ajah junction without disrupting people’s lives. Why can’t similar planning be applied here?”
Others suggested suspending ongoing coastal road projects to temporarily provide an alternative route.
Commuters Share Nightmarish Traffic Experiences
The closure has led to extreme delays, with some residents spending up to eight hours in traffic. Motorists recounted harrowing experiences of being stuck for hours, struggling to find food, water, or fuel while enduring gridlock with children in their vehicles.
A commuter, Theophilus, a banker who works in Lekki, narrated his ordeal:
“I left my home in Gbagada thinking all was fine, but got stuck at Osborne. I thought the traffic would ease, but it didn’t. I ended up turning back home by 8 PM after wasting several hours.”
Another X user, Omo Yoruba ni mi (@KazeemMaranroo1), described his frustrating commute:
“I spent eight hours in traffic. I left work at 5:20 PM and didn’t get home until 2:30 AM. There should be an alternative route from Lekki or Ajah to the Mainland.”
Authorities Respond with Promises of Better Traffic Management
Following the massive public outcry, government agencies have announced measures to address the situation.
The Lagos Sector Commander of FRSC, Kehinde Hamzat, assured the public that efforts were underway to prevent another day of extreme gridlock. According to him, FRSC, LASTMA, and the police will work together to improve traffic flow. He stated:
“What happened was unfortunate. We are working round the clock to ensure this does not repeat itself. Over 100 FRSC officers have been deployed, and we are coordinating with other commands to assist if needed.”
Similarly, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, confirmed that 600 traffic officers had been assigned to manage the crisis. A special “Night-Gang” unit has also been created to oversee traffic flow in the evenings until midnight.
“Our primary goal is to ensure seamless vehicular movement and remove any obstructions. We remain committed to creating a structured and efficient transport system for Lagosians,” Bakare-Oki said.
Lagos Police Dismiss Claims of Security Concerns
While many commuters noted a lack of security presence during the gridlock, the Lagos State Police Command dismissed claims of any security breaches. Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin stated that officers were present and actively working to restore order.
“I was there and saw our officers managing traffic. No security incidents were reported to us,” he said.
Commuters Demand Better Planning to Avoid Prolonged Suffering
With the bridge set to remain closed for two months, many Lagosians are demanding urgent solutions to prevent further hardship.
Unless swift actions are taken, residents fear they will continue to endure severe congestion, wasting valuable hours in traffic daily.
