Lagos-Ibadan expressway remains blocked as gridlock sparks robbery fears [VIDEO]

By Anuoluwa Amao

The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway remained heavily obstructed early Wednesday, leaving motorists stranded and raising concerns over the safety of commuters caught in the prolonged gridlock.

A social media update posted around 7:10 a.m. on Wednesday said the expressway was still blocked, with motorists advised to stay home if possible.

The update also highlighted concerns over the movement of medical emergencies, while alleging that traffic robbers had taken advantage of the congestion during the night. It called on the Lagos State Police Command and the Rapid Response Squad to step up security along the affected route.

The traffic crisis follows a series of incidents around the Kara Bridge area, where ongoing rehabilitation work has already reduced road capacity. On Tuesday, a 40-foot container-laden truck reportedly suffered brake failure and crashed into road barriers and other vehicles, causing a major backlog.

READ ALSO; Kara Bridge repairs trigger gridlock as Lagos-Ibadan Expressway traffic worsens

A separate report said a multiple-vehicle crash involving seven vehicles occurred at Kara Bridge, further worsening the congestion and leaving motorists trapped for more than 14 hours.

The gridlock has reportedly stretched towards Berger and other parts of the Lagos-Ibadan corridor, with motorists facing significant delays.

Authorities have been working to clear affected vehicles and manage traffic, while repair work on the Kara Bridge continues. The rehabilitation, which began on September 8, is expected to run until September 22.

With the route remaining severely congested, motorists have been urged to exercise caution and cooperate with traffic management and security personnel deployed along the corridor.