Despite the Federal Government’s directive to reopen the Independence/Mekwen Bridge, traffic congestion continued in Lagos Island on Thursday, as the bridge remained closed. Minister of Works Senator David Umahi had ordered its reopening to address complaints about traffic caused by the bridge’s rehabilitation. However, as of Thursday morning, motorists faced long delays, with some opting for ferry transport to circumvent the gridlock.
Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, confirmed that maintenance work is still ongoing, particularly on a section requiring urgent repairs before the bridge can reopen. The closure, which began on April 1, 2025, is expected to last until the end of May and primarily affects traffic from Ahmadu Bello Way and Adeola Odeku towards Marina, Eko Bridge, and Onikan. Motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes to avoid delays. Kesha apologized for the inconvenience, assuring residents that the repairs are essential for the bridge’s safety and stability.
Many motorists and commuters spent hours stuck in traffic, with some resorting to sleeping in their cars or offices. By 6 a.m. on Thursday, congestion had already formed from Lekki and Victoria Island toward the Mainland.
In light of the delays, there was a significant increase in ferry transportation as commuters sought alternative routes. The Ipakodo Jetty in Ikorodu experienced heavy passenger traffic, although operations were temporarily halted due to a fire that damaged a LAGFERRY boat. Thankfully, no lives were lost, but nine passengers suffered injuries and required hospitalization.
In response to the traffic situation, the Lagos State Government advised motorists without urgent business on the Island to avoid the Independence Bridge area. They provided alternative routes for those traveling to Victoria Island, Third Mainland Bridge, and Inner Marina, including using Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Akin Adesola Street, and other connecting roads to bypass the congestion.
The government is urging road users to cooperate with traffic management personnel to help improve the flow of traffic. Many motorists caught in the gridlock expressed frustration over the long delays and the absence of visible traffic enforcement agents.
Akinwale Odebiyi reported spending six hours traveling from Ojodu Berger to Victoria Island and another five hours for the return trip, noting that there were no LASTMA officials present to help manage the situation. Nosa John shared that his wife left home for a burial in Ajah at 9 a.m. but didn’t arrive until after 6 p.m., getting stuck on the road overnight before finally returning home at 7:30 a.m. the next day. Remi Ojulari mentioned that it took him seven hours to travel from Victoria Island to Iyana-Oworo, questioning whether LASTMA officials were on strike due to their absence.
Commercial driver Muritala Alao pointed out that the road is still blocked at Bonny Camp and that the Mekwen Bridge remains closed for repairs, suggesting that traffic will continue to be a problem until the work is completed. With traffic congestion worsening, commuters are left with little option but to cope with the difficulties or find alternative transportation.