The Lagos State government has ordered a temporary suspension of maintenance work on the Ogudu–Ifako Bridge in Kosofe Local Government Area, which connects motorists to the Third Mainland Bridge.
The suspension followed reports of severe gridlock and growing security threats in the area.
The traffic congestion has created an opportunity for robbers, who have been attacking, dispossessing, and in some cases maiming motorists stuck in traffic. Motorists lamented spending over six hours in a journey that ordinarily takes less than 15 minutes.
Last Thursday, a media executive and lawyer, Mr. Richard Akinnola, was robbed by traffic hoodlums around the 7Up, Old-Toll Gate area in Ketu, where he was dispossessed of a huge amount of cash and valuables.
Narrating his ordeal on his X handle, Akinnola wrote: “Calling on RRS, Lagos. Two days ago, the repair work on Ogudu road from 7Up commenced.
“This has led to serious traffic along that corridor. I was in the traffic about noon when I was robbed by hoodlums who took advantage of the severe traffic. They were in the process of breaking my car windows when armed idiots dispossessed me of every cash on me.
“The RRS ought to be proactive and anticipated the operations of these idiots within that corridor by deploying their men along the area.
“They need to do this before someone is hurt or shot.”
Other motorists also shared similar experiences of attacks by criminals taking advantage of the traffic.
Earlier, Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, had notified the public about the commencement of the project, warning of likely congestion due to traffic diversions.
The second phase of the bridge’s maintenance began after the first phase was completed and the bridge reopened. The repair of the expansion joints inbound Third Mainland Bridge was scheduled to last from August 19 to October 1, 2025.
Osiyemi explained that the maintenance works would be carried out in phases to reduce the burden on road users.
Also commenting, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Olawale Musa, said the suspension was to review traffic management strategies.
Musa stated: “The project was paused to review the traffic management plans. Work to continue during the week. (this week). It’s a decision we have to take with the contractor and other stakeholders.
“We, however, enjoin residents to be patient, obey the traffic officials and make use of alternative routes. The exercise is for the good of the people and we are making all efforts to fast track completion date.”
He added: “Also, ambulances were strategically stationed in case of any emergency that may require medical attention.”