The unexpected closure of the Independence Bridge in Lagos has sparked controversy, with the Minister of Works, David Umahi, expressing strong dissatisfaction over the decision.
During his visit to the site on Thursday, April 3, Umahi revealed that he was not informed beforehand.
The Minister described the move as “very unfortunate” and criticized the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Mrs. Olukorede Keisha, for taking such a major step without consulting him.
“I was not informed. The controller did that on her own, and it’s very unfortunate,” Umahi stated.
“For a bridge to be closed, especially in Lagos, I should be informed as the minister. We should have studied the implications, even though it’s an emergency situation.”
The closure, which led to heavy traffic congestion, left many residents frustrated.
Umahi emphasized that a decision of this magnitude should have been deliberated at the ministerial level before implementation.
Expressing disappointment, Umahi warned federal controllers and engineers across the country against making unilateral decisions on road closures.
“Never close a route or any bridge without going through the Permanent Secretary, who will seek permission from the Honorable Minister of Works.
There will be consequences and disciplinary action for this,” he warned.
He also acknowledged the hardship caused by the closure and took responsibility for the disruptions, despite not authorizing the move.
“Let me apologize to Lagosians and Mr. President for the trouble this closure caused. I take responsibility, even though I did not order it,” Umahi stated.
To address the issue, the Minister announced a plan to restore the bridge temporarily within three days.
He assured Lagos residents that by Sunday, April 6, the bridge would be fully reopened.
Furthermore, Umahi outlined a long-term solution, explaining that after two weeks, a more permanent structure would be installed.
“If we were to do this properly, there would have been a different approach. We wouldn’t have necessitated a total closure. Even if closure was required, we would have planned it better—perhaps over three days, from Friday to Sunday,” he explained.
The controversy surrounding the Independence Bridge closure has once again highlighted the importance of effective communication.
