During a Friday event Minister of Works David Umahi opened the Independence Bridge to traffic after closure for maintenance measures despite causing widespread public complaints and major transportation problems in Lagos.
The Minister addressed journalists while checking the site and promised residents permanent bridge restoration would start in the following three weeks.
The minister recognized that the bridge serves as a critical connection between Victoria Island and other areas of Lagos then expressed regret about the inconvenience imposed by the temporary closure.
The bridge reopened following a period of extensive traffic jams because commuters and drivers strongly criticized the absence of efficient traffic control measures throughout the shutdown.
Vanguard documented Lagosians experience of enduring traffic jams that became known as a “nightmare” throughout their extended periods of delay in moving forward. The road blockade halted neighboring roads completely which disrupted active daily operations in Lagos metropolitan area.
X (formerly Twitter) users among others on social media used their platforms to express their dissatisfaction about the absence of traffic control agencies at vital points throughout Victoria Island.
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Motorists condemned both the Federal Government and Lagos State Government for failing to plan and coordinate effectively because users observed missing LASTMA and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) presence along with traffic wardens during the congestion period.
The advisory warned the ministry will transform the lessons from this situation into improved approaches for upcoming infrastructure development projects.
The minister pledged to initiate lasting construction on this essential bridge that would start within three weeks to bring back better services for all Lagos citizens.
The Independence Bridge functions as an essential crossroads of the road system that creates entry points for private vehicles together with commercial transport from and into Lagos city.
