Sanwo-Olu apologizes for traffic chaos, vows swift action on Independence Bridge repairs

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Sanwo-Olu apologizes for traffic chaos, vows swift action on Independence Bridge repairs

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has issued a public apology for the severe traffic congestion caused by the now-halted repair work on the Independence Bridge near Bonny Camp in Lagos.

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Jubril Gawat, shared updates on X, revealing that Sanwo-Olu visited the affected site at 9:59 a.m. alongside key government officials to assess the situation.

Gawat quoted the governor as saying the repair project, undertaken by Messrs Buildwell Construction, had been planned for over three years to prevent a potential structural failure.

However, in light of the disruptions, Sanwo-Olu assured residents that immediate measures would be taken to alleviate traffic flow.

To mitigate congestion, he announced that alternative routes would be better managed, with increased deployment of traffic officers and security personnel, similar to the measures implemented during the festive season.

Additionally, he urged Lagosians to adhere to traffic regulations and encouraged businesses with remote work capabilities to allow employees to work from home during the repair period.

Meanwhile, in a significant policy reversal, the Federal Government on Wednesday rescinded its decision to fully close the bridge to vehicular movement.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, via a statement issued by Lagos Federal Controller of Works, Mrs Olukorede Kesha.

The Independence Bridge was shut down on April 1 for critical maintenance, with an expected closure until May.

However, following public outcry over the resulting gridlock, authorities have opted for an alternative approach to the rehabilitation process.