The Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the reopening of the Independence Bridge in Lagos on Friday, which had been temporarily closed for maintenance. The bridge’s closure had caused significant disruptions to traffic in the city, leading to widespread frustration among residents and commuters.
Umahi, who visited the site shortly after the reopening, assured the public that permanent repair work on the bridge would begin within three weeks. He acknowledged the critical role the Independence Bridge plays in connecting Victoria Island to other important areas in Lagos, and offered his apologies for the inconvenience caused by the temporary closure.
The two-day closure of the bridge had resulted in severe traffic gridlocks, leaving commuters stranded for long periods. Many residents voiced their anger over the lack of alternative routes and the absence of proper traffic management during the shutdown. According to reports, the closure caused a standstill on nearby roads, which had a massive impact on the daily activities of the bustling city.
Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), were filled with complaints from residents who expressed their frustration over the lack of traffic control. Many users criticized both the Federal and Lagos State Governments for what they saw as inadequate planning and poor coordination. They specifically pointed out the absence of personnel from key traffic agencies such as the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and other traffic wardens who could have helped ease the congestion.
In response to these concerns, Umahi noted that the Ministry of Works had taken into account the public reaction and that lessons learned from the situation would guide better planning for future infrastructure projects.
“We understand the hardship this has caused Lagosians, and we are working to ensure that permanent work begins in three weeks to restore and improve this vital bridge,” the minister said.
