The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has announced the reopening of the Independence Bridge in Lagos for vehicular traffic, following several days of severe gridlock caused by its closure.
During an inspection visit, Umahi confirmed that while the bridge will temporarily reopen, permanent rehabilitation work is set to begin in three weeks. In the meantime, palliative repairs have been completed to ensure the bridge’s safety for public use.
The Independence Bridge, a key route linking Victoria Island to other parts of Lagos, had been closed earlier in the week by the Federal Ministry of Works for urgent maintenance. The closure led to significant traffic congestion, with many commuters left stranded overnight, paralyzing surrounding roads.
In response to the hardship faced by residents, Umahi ordered the immediate reopening of the bridge. He apologized to Lagosians for the inconvenience and stated that disciplinary action would be taken against the Federal Controller of Works responsible for the poorly coordinated closure.
Umahi visited the site on Thursday, where he issued an official apology and assured that the situation would be resolved within 48 hours. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had also visited the site, offering his own apology and promising swift action.
To verify the bridge’s safety, Umahi personally drove across it, confirming its structural integrity.
He reiterated that the permanent rehabilitation project will begin within three weeks. Further details on the upcoming works and traffic management plans are expected to be announced by the Federal Ministry of Works.
