Commuters trying to access Lagos from the mainland would experience discomfort on that route.
This is because on Saturday, Mrs. Forosola Oloyede, the acting federal controller of works in Lagos State, declared that an extra part of the Eko Bridge will be shut down in order to prevent a catastrophe.
A fire on Friday night had damaged the Ijora Olopa part of the bridge.
A temporary closure of the Costain-bound lane of the bridge’s Apongbon-Ijora segment while integrity checks on the infrastructure were being conducted, was already in force.
Oloyede expressed worries about the structural soundness of several bridge components in a statement on Saturday, which resulted in the closure of the opposing lane.
She said: “Upon further assessment with the ministry’s Bridge Consultant; On behalf of the Honorable Minister of Works and Housing- Mr Babatunde Fashola, I want to inform the public that both bounds of the bridge, the Apongbon– Ijora Olopa and the Ijora Olopa–Apongbon sections will be closed to motorists.”
She said the closure would last till comprehensive inspection and integrity tests were carried out.
“The reason for this is to avert any catastrophe and safeguard the life of pedestrians and motorists.
“The Inspection and Integrity tests are planned to be carried out as soon as possible. Further updates on the closure will be communicated as events develop,” she said.
Oloyede encouraged drivers to take detours and work with the traffic control organisations that will be on the ground directing and managing flow.
“We regret the inconveniences this may cause the public,” she said.
