The Nigerian government has announced the commencement of urgent palliative repairs on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway bridges, specifically targeting the Kara, Arepo, and Magboro bridges. This decision follows a serious accident involving an 18-seater commercial bus that resulted in multiple injuries due to structural failures at one of the expansion joints.
Key Takeaways
- Palliative repairs will address failing expansion joints on critical bridges.
- The repairs are a temporary measure pending full rehabilitation approval.
- Vandalism is cited as a significant factor in the deterioration of infrastructure.
Background of the Repairs
The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, revealed the urgent need for repairs during a press briefing. The announcement came after a recent accident at the Arepo bus stop, where several passengers were injured due to a structural failure linked to the expansion joints of the bridge.
Kesha emphasized that the Kara, Arepo, and Magboro bridges are in critical condition, with some expansion joints showing visible signs of distress. The government has directed a contractor already working on the expressway to initiate palliative maintenance this weekend as a short-term solution.
Details of the Repairs
- Location of Repairs: Kara, Arepo, and Magboro bridges.
- Nature of Repairs: Palliative works to address failing expansion joints.
- Contractor: A contractor currently engaged on the expressway has been instructed to begin repairs.
- Timeline: Repairs are set to start immediately, with full rehabilitation pending government approval.
Addressing Vandalism
Kesha also highlighted the detrimental impact of vandalism on public infrastructure, stating that such acts significantly accelerate the deterioration of essential structures. She urged citizens to treat public assets as shared property and to report any acts of vandalism to the authorities.
"Damaging public property does not benefit any responsible citizen. Let us regard these facilities as our own property," Kesha stated, appealing for public cooperation in protecting national assets.
Government Commitment to Safety
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing road safety and infrastructure resilience across the country. Kesha expressed regret over the inconveniences caused by the deteriorating infrastructure and reiterated the importance of public vigilance and cooperation in maintaining these vital structures.
As the repairs commence, the government is hopeful that these immediate actions will mitigate further accidents and improve the overall safety of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a critical route for commuters and commercial transport in Nigeria.
Sources
- FG to begin urgent palliative repairs on Lagos-Ibadan expressway bridges, Nairametrics · 17 hours ago.
- FG begins repairs on Lagos-Ibadan bridges, Punch Newspapers · 13 hours ago.
- Nigerian govt to begin emergency repairs on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway bridges, Daily Post Nigeria · 15 hours ago.
- FG begins repairs on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway bridges, The Guardian Nigeria News.
