Tag: Oshodi pedestrian bridge

The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit (TASKFORCE) has denied allegations that its officials were collecting tolls from users of the Oshodi Pedestrian Bridge.

The agency’s rebuttal followed a video alleging that its officials were demanding tolls from pedestrians using the bridge.

A mammoth crowd had continued to troop the pedestrian bridge since Monday following the closure of a section of the road for repairs by the government.

Describing the allegation as false and misleading, the agency’s Director of Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, emphasized that they neither charge nor are authorized to collect tolls.

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“The Lagos State Taskforce does not charge or authorize the collection of tolls on pedestrian bridges.

“Officials of the Lagos State Taskforce and the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) are stationed at pedestrian bridges to enforce their usage for public safety and the preservation of human lives, not to extort pedestrians.

“Relevant enforcement agencies have been notified to address the situation and ensure the safety of all road users.

“We urge the public to disregard the misinformation and report any such illegal activities through the appropriate government channels,” he said.

The Lagos State Government has assured commuters that efforts are ongoing to tackle the issue of overcrowding on the alternative bridge in Oshodi.

Recall The Nation reported that the Oshodi pedestrian bridge was overcrowded with commuters early Monday after the government ordered the closure of the main bridge in January, citing concerns about its safety and structural integrity.

A statement by Commissioner for the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, re-assured the public that the government was already taking steps to address the situation.

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He acknowledged the challenges faced by residents and commuters in the area due to the high volume of foot traffic at the alternative bridge.

Wahab said: “Dear Lagosians, the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources have taken note of the numerous complaints experienced during the usage of the pedestrian bridge in Oshodi this morning.

“The relevant authorities have been notified of the need to make available additional bridges in the axis.”

He wrote, “We thank you for adhering to the ‘No Crossing of Highway’ law in Lagos State and we’d like to plead that we all keep at it as we work to improve your commute in the axis.”

An alternative bridge in the Oshodi area of Lagos state was filled with pedestrians early on Monday, March 3.

This is due to the closure of the pedestrian bridge connecting Oshodi Bus Terminals 2 and 3.

In January, the Lagos state government had ordered the immediate closure of the pedestrian bridge, citing safety concerns.

The government also raised alarms over the bridge’s safety and structural integrity.

Also, the Lagos State Government had commenced the arrest of anyone found crossing the highway at points where there are pedestrian bridges.

These two factors, according to the Oshodi Pedestrian Bridge users, prompted the surge in bridge usage.

Photos and videos of pedestrians using the bridge have since gone viral. Many lamented about their safety and increased chances of theft.

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In their separate reactions, the pedestrians also pleaded with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to ensure the speedy repair of the main bridge to avoid any casualties on the alternative bridge.

A user said: “This is a desperate call for help. One of our Oshodi bridges has been closed since last year due to dangerous shaking. Now, the remaining bridge is showing signs of instability, and something must be done ASAP to ensure public safety.”

Another said, “Oshodi Isale has 2 pedestrian bridges. One has been put under lock and key, understandably, and the other one is now blocked with human traffic!

“I just hope the government swiftly pay attention to the Oshodi bridge issue before it comes a major incident”.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government is yet to react as at the time of report.