Otedola Bridge fire: FG moves to introduce weighbridges on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

The Federal Government is contemplating reintroducing weighbridges on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway to curb overloading by trucks and heavy-duty vehicles, thereby reducing road accidents. Olufemi Dare, Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, revealed this during a press conference alongside Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, at the Otedola Bridge site.

The meeting followed a fuel tanker fire at the bridge on Monday, which reignited safety concerns on the densely trafficked expressway. Dare stated that a proposal would be submitted to Works Minister Dave Umahi within a week to review the inclusion of weighbridges in the planned expressway improvements using continuously reinforced concrete pavement.

These facilities would aid in monitoring vehicle weights, enhancing road safety enforcement, and ensuring proper braking systems. Dare elaborated that the incident likely occurred when a fully loaded tanker rolled backward and fell beneath the bridge after colliding with another vehicle. The Federal Ministry of Works would conduct a thorough structural analysis to evaluate the bridge's condition post-incident.

Factors such as reckless driving, poor vehicle upkeep, and the removal of public infrastructure, including over 100 solar lights taken from the highway, have been cited as contributors to road accidents. Dare announced a collaborative stakeholders' meeting in mid-November, involving motorists, traditional rulers, security agencies, and other relevant stakeholders, to develop measures to tackle the issues.

Osiyemi characterized the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway corridor as a frequent hotspot for accidents, attributing it to poor driving habits and insufficient vehicle maintenance. He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between Lagos and Ogun states to enhance safety. Osiyemi expressed support for the proposed weighbridges, pointing out that some vehicles were either overloaded or unsuitable for the route.

He urged truck owners and transport unions to educate their drivers on proper maintenance and driving practices. The Lagos State Government has launched a road safety campaign during the ember month and increased patrols to prevent accidents. Osiyemi reminded motorists that arriving safely was preferable to rushing to reach their destinations quickly.

One person reportedly sustained burn injuries in the tanker incident and was receiving treatment. The bridge remains safe, based on the Federal Controller's assessment, though a comprehensive structural test is planned.