The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has announced that Olukorede Kesha, the Lagos Controller of Works, will face disciplinary action for ordering the closure of the Independence Bridge without proper authorization. This decision resulted in severe traffic congestion across Lagos on Wednesday.
During a site inspection, Umahi stated that Kesha did not seek approval from him or the ministry’s Permanent Secretary before issuing the closure order. The bridge was shut down for maintenance and rehabilitation from April 1 to the end of May 2025, causing significant delays for motorists traveling from Obalende to Victoria Island and other areas.
Umahi criticized the comptroller for neglecting standard protocols, saying, “I should have been informed. We should have studied the implications before proceeding.” He stressed that no road or bridge should be closed without the necessary approvals, warning that unauthorized actions would not be tolerated.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who also visited the site, acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the repairs but emphasized their necessity for public safety. He urged residents to support the state government’s efforts, noting that there is never an ideal time for such essential maintenance.
