Urgent Call for Independent Structural Assessment of Eko Bridge

The Hon. Minister of Works announced yesterday that a dredging vessel collided with one of the support piles of the Eko Bridge, causing serious damage. The impact was significant enough to result in the sinking of the dredging vessel.

Despite acknowledging the severity of the situation, the Minister also stated that the bridge remains safe for use while repairs are assessed and carried out. This contradictory messaging raises concerns, especially in light of recent experiences.

Just days ago, the Independence Bridge was closed by the Federal Ministry of Works for emergency works. The repairs were said to be necessary and expected to last several weeks. However, following intense public backlash over the disruption caused, the same Ministry reversed its position within 48 hours, claiming in its press statement that the Minister of Works has “fixed the failed section of Independence bridge, Lagos, which was closed for repairs on 2nd April 2025”.

These recent developments raise serious questions about consistency, technical rigor, and public accountability in the operations of the Federal Ministry of Works under current leadership.

In light of this, permitting continued traffic on the affected section of the Eko Bridge should be based on a preliminary expert assessment affirming the bridge’s safety for that purpose. In addition the Lagos State Government should immediately commission an independent expert structural assessment to determine the current actual state of the bridge in light of the collision, the necessity or otherwise of any traffic restrictions, and the appropriate short- and long-term safety measures.

Beyond this immediate concern, there are long-standing issues regarding allegedly widespread illegal dredging activity. These need to be addressed decisively to prevent future incidents.

Finally, the prolonged silence and inactivity of the Lagos State House of Assembly, while always problematic, is particularly glaring and potentially dangerous at a time like this, when it should be most active in oversight and advocacy on behalf of the people.

Funso Doherty