Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has stated that the Independence Bridge will continue to be closed for repairs, despite the severe traffic issues this has caused.
During an inspection of the bridge on Thursday, he pointed out that safety concerns require the ongoing repairs, warning that reopening the bridge prematurely could lead to serious risks.
Sanwo-Olu also mentioned that the traffic problems on Wednesday were a result of poor communication from the authorities.
He admitted that the public had not been well-informed about the closure, which significantly added to the frustration and traffic jams for commuters.
“Poor communication caused the gridlock. I take full responsibility. People were not adequately informed. Communication is key; it helps people plan alternative routes and make better decisions,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He informed the residents that measures are being implemented to tackle the communication gaps and improve information flow going forward.
The governor encouraged Lagosians to modify their commuting habits while the repairs take place.
“If you don’t have urgent business on Victoria Island in the next two to three weeks, consider working from home, using telephone or Zoom meetings, and planning ahead,” he urged.
He disclosed that more personnel from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) would be sent out to handle traffic and work late into the night to ease congestion during rush hours.
Sanwo-Olu also reacted to the recent instruction from the Minister of Works, David Umahi, who urged the reopening of the bridge.
The governor disagreed with this instruction, highlighting the necessity of completing the repairs for the safety of the public.
“With all due respect to the Minister, Senator Umahi, we are the ones on the ground. This bridge has had structural issues for over three years. If we attempt to reopen it now, without completing the repairs, it could collapse, leading to a major disaster,”
