The Federal Government has raised concerns over the extensive damage to the almost-completed Lotto Bridge Interchange on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, following an accident involving a low-bed truck carrying an excavator.
Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, expressed deep concern during an inspection visit to the site on Monday.
She said the incident, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday, was caused by the excavator’s boom not being properly lowered, leading it to collide with the bridge beams.
“From what we observed, the boom of the excavator was too high to pass under the bridge,” Kesha said. She noted that five beams were affected, with two suffering major damage that would require complete replacement.
Kesha warned that the incident would have a significant impact on traffic and the economy due to the need for road closures and diversions during repairs. “This section of the road will be shut down, and anyone familiar with the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway knows how crucial this route is,” she added.
While no timeline has been set for the repairs, Kesha disclosed that a comprehensive damage report is being compiled. “Once we get the go-ahead, the contractor will swing into action,” she assured.
She also criticized the recklessness of some heavy-duty truck operators and called on logistics firms to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and within height limits. “We will not condone this kind of negligence. People must understand that their actions have consequences for millions,” she said.
Kesha confirmed that the driver responsible has been arrested and that weighbridges at the Old Toll Gate would soon become operational to prevent overloading incidents.
The Lotto Bridge, which was near completion and intended to ease traffic for commuters heading to Ikorodu, Sagamu, and Mowe, will remain closed until repairs are completed. Kesha emphasized that safety remains the top priority, saying, “We owe Nigerians safe infrastructure, and we will do everything it takes to fix this damage.”
