Despite the Federal Government’s directive to reopen the Independence Bridge in Mekwen, Lagos, gridlock continued to plague Lagos Island on Thursday as the bridge remained closed.
On Wednesday, Minister of Works Senator David Umahi had ordered the immediate reopening of the bridge following widespread complaints about the severe traffic congestion caused by its planned maintenance and rehabilitation.
However, by Thursday morning, traffic remained chaotic, with motorists stuck for hours, and some commuters opting for ferry transport to bypass the gridlock.
The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Olukorede Kesha confirmed that rehabilitation work is still ongoing, particularly on a section of the bridge that has been cut off and requires urgent repairs before it can be reopened. She reiterated that the bridge’s closure, which began on April 1, 2025, is set to last until the end of May.
Kesha explained that the closure impacts traffic traveling from Ahmadu Bello Way and Adeola Odeku towards Marina, Eko Bridge, and Onikan. Motorists were advised to use alternative routes to avoid the congestion. She apologized for the inconvenience and assured residents that the repairs are essential for the bridge’s safety and stability.
By Thursday morning, many motorists and commuters were trapped in long traffic lines, with some even forced to sleep on the road or in their offices. As early as 6 a.m., traffic had already backed up from Lekki and Victoria Island towards the Mainland.
In response, ferry transportation saw a significant increase as commuters sought alternative routes. The Ipakodo Jetty in Ikorodu experienced heavy passenger traffic, but operations were temporarily disrupted due to a fire that gutted a LAGFERRY boat. Thankfully, no lives were lost, though nine passengers were injured and hospitalized.
The Lagos State Government has advised motorists without urgent business on the Island to avoid the Independence Bridge area. They also urged road users to cooperate with traffic management personnel to help alleviate the congestion.
