Minister of Works, David Umahi, has distanced himself from the recent closure of the Independence Bridge in Lagos, stating that he was not informed prior to the decision taken by the Federal Controller of Works in the state, Olukorede Kesha.
Earlier in the week, Kesha had announced that the bridge would be shut down for urgent rehabilitation and maintenance works, with the closure expected to last until the end of May.
However, the decision led to severe traffic congestion across Victoria Island and its environs on Wednesday, leaving many commuters stranded for hours.
Amid widespread public complaints, Umahi ordered the immediate reopening of the bridge, while Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu issued an apology and accepted responsibility for the disruption caused by the closure.
Speaking during a visit to the site on Thursday, Umahi clarified that the controller acted independently without his knowledge or approval.
“I am here on the directive of Mr. President, who saw the distress Lagosians experienced due to the closure of the Independence Bridge,” he said.
“Though the repair of the collapsed return wall of the bridge is important, I was not informed before it was shut down. The decision was made solely by the controller, which is regrettable.
“In a complex city like Lagos, it has always been the standard procedure that the minister must be notified of such actions. A proper assessment of the consequences should have been carried out, even in emergencies.”
Umahi stressed the importance of proper communication and coordination, warning that henceforth, no road or bridge should be closed without official approval from the relevant authorities.