A major traffic disruption hit the Epe Expressway on Wednesday after an empty tanker blocked the entire Ibeju Bridge, leaving motorists stranded for hours.
Thankfully, no casualty was recorded in the incident, according to officials from the Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA).
The blockage, which occurred early in the day, immediately caused a gridlock stretching across several adjoining routes, affecting commuters heading toward both Epe and the Island axis.
In a bid to ease the heavy congestion, LASTMA announced traffic diversion routes for affected motorists.
The agency’s statement read:
“For motorists inbound from Inner Epe, Marina, Begger, and Oko Orisan heading to the Island, please divert via:
- T-Junction → Oke-Osho → Tokin → Agbowa → Imota.
- Reconnect through Ikorodu Road to proceed to the Mainland. For motorists from Lekki, Ajah, Victoria Island, and Law School heading towards Epe, please divert via:
- Ikorodu Road → Ikorodu → Tokin — and continue your journey from there.”
Furthermore, LASTMA assured road users that recovery efforts were already underway.
Officials are working with emergency response teams to remove the tanker and restore smooth traffic flow on the bridge.
According to the agency, heavy-duty equipment has been mobilized to the location.
“We are currently waiting for the crane machine, as the vehicle owner has promised it is on the way,” LASTMA said.
Motorists have been urged to remain patient and cooperate with traffic officers on site.
“Exercise caution, be calm, and follow the directions of our officers. Recovery is ongoing,” the agency added.
Meanwhile, commuters have expressed frustration over the unexpected gridlock, which reportedly extended into neighboring routes.
Many commercial drivers were forced to take long detours, while private vehicle owners experienced delays lasting several hours.
Moreover, LASTMA reiterated its commitment to public safety, emphasizing that drivers should avoid overspeeding and overloading to prevent future incidents.
The agency also encouraged motorists to ensure proper vehicle maintenance, particularly for tankers and articulated vehicles, to reduce the likelihood of breakdowns on major bridges and highways.
In addition, authorities noted that further updates would be provided once the evacuation process is fully completed.
