The Federal Government has warned that it may shut the Lagos section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway within two weeks if vandalism and safety violations persist. The highway, a crucial transportation link, has been plagued by the removal of 150 directional signs and the vandalism of 5km of clear-view fencing along an 18-kilometre stretch. These acts of vandalism pose a significant security threat to motorists, road workers, and the ongoing construction.
An inspection of the highway revealed unauthorised beaches, illegal U-turns, and other hazardous activities. The Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Olufemi Dare, issued the warning on behalf of the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi. He expressed concern over the reckless behaviour of some motorists, which has heightened the risks to workers and other road users. The government had initially been reluctant to open the highway to traffic while construction was still ongoing.
The Lagos portion of the highway spans 103 kilometres, with 20 major bridges under construction. Motorists are expected to observe a maximum speed limit of 30km/h within construction zones. However, some drivers have been caught travelling at speeds of up to 120km/h, posing a significant risk to lives. According to Dare, lives are being lost on the coastal road almost every other day, and this trend must be stopped.
The Federal Government has reiterated its ban on commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, and tricycles on the highway. Enforcement will also cover hawking, illegal settlements, unauthorised grazing, and other prohibited activities. Violators will be arrested and prosecuted. In the previous week, more than 100 motorcycles were arrested on the highway. The government plans to clamp down on the parking of trucks and articulated vehicles along the highway.
To strengthen security and prevent further vandalism, the Federal Government is considering installing closed-circuit television cameras along the highway. Plans are also underway to reorganise and retrain the Coastal Guard, with members of communities along the highway expected to participate. The government will work with the police to increase deployment and improve security.
The government will replace some of the steel fencing with block walls in locations where repeated vandalism has occurred. Olufemi Dare appealed to motorists, traders, truck operators, and other road users to comply with safety regulations. He warned that enforcement would be intensified in the coming weeks, and violators would face prosecution.
The Lagos-Calabar highway is a critical infrastructure project, and its closure would have significant economic and social implications. The government is taking steps to address the issues and ensure the safe use of the highway. Motorists and other road users are urged to cooperate with the authorities to prevent a shutdown.
Key points
- The Federal Government has given a 14-day ultimatum to address the safety violations and vandalism on the Lagos-Calabar highway.
- The highway has been plagued by the removal of 150 directional signs and the vandalism of 5km of clear-view fencing.
- The government plans to install closed-circuit television cameras and retrain the Coastal Guard to strengthen security and prevent further vandalism.
