The Federal Government has issued a stern warning that it may shut down the Lagos section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway if safety concerns are not addressed. According to Olufemi Dare, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has directed the ministry to shut down the road if there is no significant improvement within two weeks. This warning comes amid persistent safety and security challenges on the highway.
The Lagos section of the coastal highway spans approximately 103km within the state, comprising two sections measuring 47.474km and 56km. Construction is still ongoing, particularly on the bridges, with 10 major bridges planned for each of the two sections. Dare noted that the road was opened despite not being fully completed, with ordinarily it should not have been opened until all the bridges are finished.
Motorists have been driving at alarming speeds on sections where construction activities are ongoing, despite the 30km/h speed limit displayed along the highway. Dare expressed concern that some drivers have been speeding at as high as 120km/h, stressing that lives are being lost on the coastal road almost every other day. He emphasized that motorists must adhere to the speed limit to avoid accidents.
The authorities have recorded loss of life on the highway and have commenced measures to address the issues. The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, has increased police deployment along the highway after meetings with Umahi. Dare warned that trucks and articulated vehicles parked on the highway would be towed away, while illegal U-turns would be removed and offenders prosecuted.
In addition to traffic violations, Dare raised concerns over the vandalisation of infrastructure along the highway. About five kilometres of clear view fencing have been removed, while concrete drainage covers covering about 18km have also been vandalised and taken away. The perpetrators often operate at night despite police patrols, adding that directional signs and other installations have also been vandalised.
The government is taking steps to address the issues, including a crackdown on illegal settlements, hawking, and animal grazing along the highway. At least 10 illegal settlements have been identified and would be removed, while CCTV cameras are being considered to strengthen surveillance. The government has also approved 40 coastal guards for the first section of the highway, with members expected to be nominated by communities along the route and work with the police.
The government has warned truck operators using the Gypsy Port area as a parking space that a joint task force would be deployed to clear the vehicles this week. The ministry had already met with operators in the area and warned them against turning the road into a permanent parking facility. The controller urged Lagos residents, motorists, and other highway users to comply with the new directives, warning that the government would intensify enforcement.
Key points
- The Federal Government may shut down the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway within two weeks if safety concerns are not addressed.
- Motorists have been driving at alarming speeds on sections where construction activities are ongoing, despite the 30km/h speed limit displayed along the highway.
- The government has approved 40 coastal guards for the first section of the highway to strengthen surveillance and address security challenges.
