The Lagos State Government has placed a temporary suspension on the ongoing rehabilitation of the Ogudu–Ifako Bridge located in Kosofe Local Government Area. This decision follows growing concerns from the public about prolonged traffic congestion and a noticeable spike in robbery incidents along the affected route leading to the Third Mainland Bridge.
Suspension of Phase Two Repair Works
The second stage of the maintenance project officially commenced on August 19, 2025, with plans to continue until October 1, 2025. The primary objective of this phase was the refurbishment of the bridge’s expansion joints — a crucial component for structural safety.
Unfortunately, since the commencement of the repairs, traffic along the corridor has become almost unbearable. Many motorists have been trapped in gridlock for extended periods, creating an unsafe environment that emboldens criminal elements.
From Minutes to Hours — The Traffic Nightmare
Journeys that would ordinarily be completed within 15 minutes are now dragging for up to six hours. Frustrated commuters are not only delayed but are also exposed to traffic-related crime, especially during peak hours.
Several motorists have reported being attacked by armed hoodlums who take advantage of the standstill to rob unsuspecting victims. These attacks have become more frequent and more violent in recent days.
A Firsthand Account From a Victim
One such incident was narrated by respected media professional and legal practitioner, Richard Akinnola. He shared his ordeal via his verified account on X (formerly Twitter), where he revealed that he was robbed in broad daylight near the 7Up/Old Toll Gate section in Ketu while trapped in traffic.
According to his post:
“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.”
Akinnola expressed deep concern over the lack of police presence in the area and called on the Lagos State Rapid Response Squad (RRS) to urgently deploy officers to safeguard road users from further harm.
RRS Responds With Additional Security Deployment
Reacting to the complaints, a senior officer of the Rapid Response Squad, who spoke under anonymity, confirmed that the Commander of the RRS has already mobilized armed officers to monitor and secure specific danger-prone spots along the Ogudu–Ifako axis.
“The RRS Commander has drafted armed men to strategic locations along Ogudu–Ifako where the rehabilitation is ongoing to protect motorists,” the official confirmed.
Transport Ministry Issues Clarification and Appeal
Prior to the recent developments, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, had earlier cautioned that the bridge repairs would be executed in stages. He advised residents to prepare for diversions and to comply with traffic instructions.
Following the public backlash, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, Mr Olawale Musa, officially confirmed the suspension of the repair work. He explained that the temporary halt is intended to review and improve the current traffic management strategy, while also addressing growing safety concerns.
“The project was paused to review the traffic management plans. Work will resume within the week after consultations with the contractor and stakeholders,” Musa said.
He further appealed to residents for calm, urging them to cooperate with traffic officers and to use alternate routes where necessary. Musa emphasized that the long-term benefit of the project outweighs the temporary discomfort and assured the public that the government is working to expedite the completion process.
Emergency Support Services in Place
To further cushion the effects of the gridlock, Musa disclosed that ambulances have been stationed along the affected road corridor. These emergency response units are on standby to respond swiftly to any medical emergencies that might arise during the ongoing disruption.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to both safety and infrastructure development, promising that stakeholders will continue to be carried along as efforts are made to complete the rehabilitation with minimal hardship to the public.
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