3 weeks ago
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Commuters have called on the Lagos State Government to hasten the repair of the damaged part of the Ikeja Overpass Bridge.
Some commuters had initially raised the alarm that a part of the bridge had collapsed while supporting the claim with videos and pictures.
PUNCH Metro however learnt that the barricade was damaged after a truck crashed into it at the weekend.
It was gathered that the truck was descending the bridge when the brake failed and the driver lost control in the process.
Speaking to our correspondent on Wednesday, a commuter who gave his name simply as Chris said no casualty was recorded in the accident.
He said, “The incident happened late Friday night when the truck was descending the bridge. We got to know that its brake failed and it swerved towards the other lane and hit the barricade to force the truck to a halt. The truck was removed on Saturday.”
While calling for a speedy repair of the bridge, some residents and business owners in the community expressed fear that a delay could be dangerous.
A trader, Sanusi Olaniya, said, “The moment the government removed the truck and also removed the rubble, they immediately barricaded the affected part. But we want them to repair it on time because it is even riskier leaving that place open.”
Our correspondent who visited the spot on Wednesday observed how the spot was barricaded to prevent casualties.
Another trader who also identified himself simply as Chuks said the lives of those walking on the ground floor were at risk if the bridge was not fixed early.
“If a truck could manage to damage the bridge to this extent, it is even more dangerous leaving it open this way. Some traders are just by the roadside on the ground floor doing their business. Vehicles that are making U-turns under the bridge are also not safe. The government should please fix it as soon as possible.”
When contacted, the state Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso, said he was making efforts to notify the ministry of works about it.
He said, “I saw that thing last night and it looked very fresh. I don’t know when it happened and i have been trying to get the works and infrastructure ministry, to talk about it. I’m not even sure they are aware of it. I will need to find out and get back to you”.The bridge was inaugurated for public use by the state government on December 2023.
