The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has issued a fresh and firm warning to motorists on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, declaring that anyone caught driving against traffic will face penalties as rehabilitation works continue on the Kara Bridge.
The Corps stressed that no vehicle is exempt, including security and government-owned vehicles, as enforcement has now intensified along the busy corridor.
“It’s an Abuse of Office” — FRSC Speaks Tough
The Lagos Sector Commander of FRSC, Kehinde Hamzat, issued the warning on Monday during an on-the-spot assessment of traffic congestion caused by the ongoing repairs.
Responding to reports that some security operatives and government officials were flouting traffic rules, Hamzat told Channels Television that such behaviour is unacceptable.
“It is wrong. Many times, we take some of their details,” he said.
“I saw one pass when I was at the Opic turning; we have taken the details and will report appropriately.”
Hamzat described the act as an abuse of office, stressing that internal disciplinary measures by affected agencies are often more severe than FRSC sanctions.
“It’s a stain on the agency and on the individual. It’s not supposed to be,” he added.
Heavy Traffic Worsens Over Kara Bridge Repairs
Traffic congestion has increased significantly following the commencement of rehabilitation works on the Kara Bridge, which the FRSC earlier announced would last at least two months.
According to the Corps, damaged sections of the road have contributed to multiple crashes, especially as impatient motorists attempt to dodge oncoming vehicles by driving one-way.
To accelerate completion, two expansion joints are currently being repaired simultaneously using faster-curing construction materials.
FRSC Deploys Officers, Blocks Illegal Entry Points
Providing an update on traffic control measures, Hamzat revealed that FRSC officers have been strategically deployed along the expressway to block motorists from driving against traffic.
“We have done a strategic deployment along the corridor. No one is allowed now to drive against traffic,” he said.
“From Warewa, where people usually try to enter the long bridge, we refuse.”
Backlog Expected, But Discipline Is Key
The sector commander acknowledged that motorists heading into Lagos are experiencing delays due to construction-related backlog but insisted that maintaining discipline is the only way to prevent total gridlock.
“People coming into Lagos will feel some pains, but if traffic is moving, it is better than blocking both sides of the road,” he explained.
He warned that allowing one-way driving at flashpoints like the Opic turning could paralyse traffic in both directions.
Arrests Made, Offenders to Face Court
Hamzat disclosed that several motorists have already been arrested for violating traffic rules.
“They have been taken to places where they may be fined and also presented before a court of competent jurisdiction,” he said.
FRSC to Maintain Presence Throughout Repairs
On enforcement duration, Hamzat confirmed that FRSC personnel would remain on duty throughout the rehabilitation period, operating on shifts to ensure round-the-clock monitoring.
“Our men will always be on ground. We have scheduled them on shifts,” he noted.
He added that the FRSC is working closely with other security agencies to ensure compliance until the project is completed.
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