Heavy traffic gridlock persisted in Lagos on Thursday despite the Federal Government’s directive to reopen the Independence/Mekwen Bridge. The bridge, which was shut down for maintenance on April 1, 2025, remained closed, leaving commuters and motorists in frustrating delays.
Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, had ordered the reopening of the bridge on Wednesday after complaints about severe congestion. However, as of Thursday morning, the situation remained unchanged, forcing many commuters to seek alternative transportation, including ferry services.
The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, confirmed that work is still in progress, particularly on a section of the bridge that has been cut off and requires urgent repairs. She noted that the closure is expected to last until the end of May.
“The closure affects traffic traveling from Ahmadu Bello Way and Adeola Odeku towards Marina, Eko Bridge, and Onikan. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes to avoid congestion,” Kesha said.
Motorists and commuters endured long hours in traffic, with some spending the night on the road or in their offices due to the congestion. By early Thursday morning, traffic had already built up from Lekki and Victoria Island towards the Mainland, making movement difficult for road users.
As a result of the gridlock, many residents turned to water transportation. Ferry stations like the Ipakodo Jetty in Ikorodu saw a surge in passengers, though a fire outbreak at a LAGFERRY boat briefly disrupted operations. Fortunately, no lives were lost, but nine passengers sustained injuries and were hospitalized.
The Lagos State Government has advised those without urgent business on the Island to avoid the affected areas. Alternative routes have been provided, including Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Akin Adesola Street, and Falomo Roundabout for those heading to Victoria Island. For motorists going to Third Mainland Bridge, the recommended routes include Osborne Road and Alfred Rewane Road.
