The Federal Government has ordered the immediate reopening of Independence Bridge in Lagos following an hours-long gridlock that left commuters stranded and businesses disrupted.
The bridge, a crucial link between Apapa, Lagos Island, and other parts of the metropolis, was temporarily closed for maintenance. However, the closure caused severe traffic congestion, affecting thousands of motorists and commuters. Reports indicate that the traffic backlog extended for several kilometers, paralyzing movement in key areas of the city.
Amid rising public frustration, authorities quickly responded, directing the immediate reopening of the bridge to ease the situation. The Minister of Works, in a statement, acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the closure and assured Lagosians that alternative measures would be put in place to ensure minimal disruption during future maintenance works.
Many residents expressed relief at the government’s decision, with some calling for better planning and communication regarding infrastructure repairs to prevent similar incidents.
Traffic congestion remains a persistent issue in Lagos, Africa’s most populous city, where road infrastructure is often overstretched. Experts have urged authorities to adopt more strategic traffic management solutions and prioritize long-term road expansion projects to accommodate the growing population.
As normalcy gradually returns, the incident highlights the delicate balance between essential infrastructure maintenance and the need to keep Nigeria’s commercial hub moving efficiently.
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