Lagos State on Wednesday experienced severe traffic congestion, particularly affecting key routes such as Falomo Bridge, Akin Adesola Street, Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, and areas leading into Ikoyi.
The gridlock prompted widespread discussions among residents and public figures, including Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw, who took to her X (formerly Twitter) handle to advise commuters. She cautioned, “Falomo Bridge leading to Akin Adesola, Ozumba, and Ikoyi… If you have no emergency, stay home. Simple.”
The congestion was notably intense on Falomo Bridge, a critical link between Ikoyi and Victoria Island. This bridge has been under scrutiny due to deteriorating pedestrian railings, which have raised safety concerns among users.
In March 2024, pedestrians expressed fears over the damaged railings, highlighting the risk of falling into the lagoon below and urging the government to undertake necessary repairs.
Compounding the traffic woes, ongoing infrastructure projects in Lagos have led to temporary road closures and diversions. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration has been actively commissioning new roads and bridges to improve connectivity.
In December 2024, the governor announced plans to unveil 36 newly completed roads and six bridges across various local government areas, including Agege, Alimosho, Badagry, Eti-Osa, Ikeja, and Kosofe citeturn0search4. While these developments aim to enhance long-term traffic flow, the construction phases have contributed to current congestion issues.
Residents have voiced their frustrations over the persistent traffic challenges. Many commuters reported being stuck in traffic for hours, leading to missed appointments and delays. The situation has also raised concerns about the economic impact, as businesses face disruptions due to employees arriving late or being unable to reach their workplaces.
One user on X, @Simbiat_Amzat, responding to Kate Henshaw, wrote: “My heart goes out to everyone who was/is in this traffic today and still have to show up at work tomorrow. This is insane!”
@CFCGbemi who just visited Lagos today, facing the traffic, changed his mind writing: “Today wey i decided to come Lagos na this traffic wan kee me😤😤😤. I dey go back to my city oo.”
Lamenting his bad experience, @WoleOgundare wrote: “I’ve just gotten out of this mess, primarily caused by the blockage of that short bridge towards Onikan (via Ozumba), so the only main exit out of the island is Ikoyi.
“Why pick the first working day of the week to completely block that exit for roadworks? Una no dey think?
“Many are going to get home at odd hours tomorrow!”
Blaming the federal government for the heavy gridlock, @therealdaddymo1 wrote: “The federal government has decided to shut down the independence bridge for the next 2 months with no contingency plans. This is going to be the reality of Lagos for the next 2 months. We will chalk this down to character building. Congratulations to all involved.”
Recalling the efforts of the former commissioner of transport in the state, @OlorogunErnest wrote: “@jidesanwoolu, please do something about this terrible traffic situation.
“Now we miss @DrKayodeOpeifa as when he was commissioner of Transportation, we would be getting updates and solutions to Lagos Transportation and traffic issues.”
Giving his ” two cents” on the matter, @CA_YoutuberBoy wrote: “Just go to a bar or eatery and drink water there. Not worth entering this madness.”
