A truck–car collision has further intensified the already severe traffic congestion around Kara Bridge on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, leaving commuters stranded for hours.
The accident occurred on the outbound lane from Lagos towards Mowe and involved a Mack truck and a Toyota Camry. Eyewitnesses said the truck rammed into the car, causing significant damage to its bonnet.
Officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), alongside other security operatives and traffic management authorities, swiftly moved to the scene to manage the situation and restore order.
“We are on ground to control traffic and ensure the safety of all road users,” an FRSC official at the scene said. “Motorists are advised to remain calm and cooperate with traffic directives.”
The crash has compounded the persistent gridlock along the Kara Bridge corridor, which has worsened in recent days due to ongoing roadworks.
Traffic congestion has reportedly stretched beyond the immediate axis, spilling over to Otedola Bridge, Berger, and adjoining routes. Many commuters have experienced extended travel times, with some journeys lasting between three and five hours for relatively short distances.
A commuter, who identified himself as Adewale, lamented the situation, saying, “I’ve been on the road for over four hours. What should have taken less than an hour has become a nightmare.”
The Federal Ministry of Works had earlier commenced rehabilitation work on the bridge, including the replacement of damaged expansion joints on the outbound carriageway. The repairs have necessitated partial lane closures and diversions, contributing significantly to the traffic build-up.
“The ongoing repairs are critical to ensuring the long-term safety of the bridge,” a ministry official noted. “We appeal to road users for patience as the work progresses.”
The current phase of the project is expected to last approximately two weeks, subject to weather and operational conditions.
Increased vehicular movement associated with the Eid holiday period has also added to the surge in traffic volume along the route.
Authorities have urged motorists to consider alternative routes where possible, obey traffic regulations, and exercise patience as efforts continue to ease congestion and restore normal traffic flow.
