The Nigerian House of Representatives has initiated an investigation into alleged illegal encroachment and unauthorized commercial activities within the Right-of-Way of Eko Bridge and other federal bridges in Lagos State. This move follows a motion sponsored by Hon. Lanre Okunlola, representing Surulere II Federal Constituency, Lagos State, during a plenary session in Abuja on October 29, 2026.
Eko Bridge, a critical infrastructure linking Lagos Mainland and Lagos Island, has been surrounded by unauthorized developments, including containers, makeshift structures, warehouses, markets, workshops, and other commercial activities. Okunlola expressed concern that these developments could compromise the structural integrity of the bridges, pose fire hazards, undermine environmental sanitation, and restrict access for routine engineering inspections and maintenance.
Reports indicate that illegal activities around Eko Bridge, including unauthorized operations near its foundations, have damaged critical structural components, necessitating emergency engineering intervention. The House noted that continued encroachment on Federal Right-of-Way could shorten the lifespan of bridges and compromise the safety of commuters and adjoining communities.
The House of Representatives has mandated its Committee on Works to investigate the legality of all structures and commercial activities within the Right-of-Way of Eko Bridge and other federal bridges in Lagos State. The committee is expected to recommend appropriate enforcement measures, including the removal of illegal structures identified within the protected corridors.
The Committee on Works has been given six weeks to report back to the House for further legislative action. This development is aimed at ensuring that federal infrastructure is protected and that the safety of commuters is guaranteed. The investigation will also help to identify the extent of the damage caused by unauthorized activities around the bridges.
The proliferation of unauthorized structures around Eko Bridge and other federal bridges in Lagos State has raised concerns among lawmakers and stakeholders. The House of Representatives is taking steps to address the issue and prevent further encroachment on federal infrastructure. The investigation will help to identify the culprits and bring them to book.
The resolution to investigate illegal structures around Eko Bridge and other federal bridges in Lagos State is a significant step towards protecting Nigeria's critical infrastructure. The House of Representatives is committed to ensuring that federal infrastructure is protected and that the safety of commuters is guaranteed.
Key points
- The Nigerian House of Representatives has initiated an investigation into alleged illegal encroachment and unauthorized commercial activities within the Right-of-Way of Eko Bridge and other federal bridges in Lagos State.
- The investigation aims to identify the extent of the damage caused by unauthorized activities around the bridges and recommend appropriate enforcement measures.
- The Committee on Works has been given six weeks to report back to the House for further legislative action.
