Traffic Chaos Continues on Independence/Mekwen Bridge Despite Federal Government’s Reopening Order, Commuters Stranded and Alternative Routes Overcrowded
LAGOS — Despite the Federal Government’s directive to reopen the Independence/Mekwen Bridge on Wednesday, Lagos Island was still engulfed in traffic gridlock on Thursday. Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, had ordered the reopening to address complaints over the heavy congestion caused by ongoing bridge maintenance.
However, by Thursday morning, traffic remained at a standstill, with commuters stranded for hours. Some even turned to ferry transport to avoid the delays. Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, confirmed that rehabilitation work is still in progress, particularly on a section of the bridge that has been blocked and requires urgent repairs before it can fully reopen.
The bridge has been closed since April 1, 2025, and will remain shut until the end of May, affecting traffic from Ahmadu Bello Way and Adeola Odeku towards Marina, Eko Bridge, and Onikan. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes to avoid congestion.
Kesha apologized for the inconvenience, stating that the repairs are essential for the bridge’s safety and stability. Despite this, many motorists and commuters faced significant delays, with some forced to sleep on the road or in their offices. Traffic had already built up by 6 a.m. Thursday, stretching from Lekki and Victoria Island to the Mainland.
The surge in ferry usage also led to disruptions. A fire broke out on a LAGFERRY boat at the Ipakodo Jetty in Ikorodu, injuring nine passengers. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported.
The Lagos State Government advised motorists without urgent business to avoid the Independence Bridge area. Alternative routes have been provided for those heading to Victoria Island, Third Mainland Bridge, and Inner Marina.
Despite the government’s efforts, frustration among commuters is rising due to severe delays and the absence of visible traffic enforcement. “I spent six hours in traffic from Ojodu Berger to Victoria Island and back, with no LASTMA officials in sight,” said one frustrated motorist, Akinwale Odebiyi.
With repairs ongoing and congestion worsening, commuters are left with little option but to endure or seek alternative transport.
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