Avoidance of Imminent Tragedy: FG Begins Demolition of Illegal Structures Under Damaged Iddo Bridge in Lagos for Prompt Rehabilitation

By Raheem Ibrahim

In a bid to prevent the total collapse of the damaged Iddo Bridge in Lagos, officials of the Federal Ministry of Works have commenced the demolition of illegal structures erected beneath the bridge to enable immediate rehabilitation.

The exercise, which began on Sunday morning, was carried out by ministry officials with the support of armed security operatives. Illegal occupants were forcefully evicted, and demolition of the unauthorized structures commenced.

The Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, who led a team that included structural engineers and officials from Julius Berger Nigeria Plc during an inspection of the bridge, immediately ordered the demolition to avert an imminent disaster that could result in the loss of lives.

Expressing concern over the deteriorating condition of the bridge—attributed to illegal human activities—Umahi stated:

“We are here with bridge experts to assess the Iddo Bridge, which was compromised due to unlawful occupation and activities underneath it.”

He added:

“People have turned the underpass into shops, warehouses, and even residential spaces. These activities have significantly weakened the structure, to the extent that Julius Berger has advised that the bridge should be completely demolished and rebuilt.”

The minister also disclosed that other critical bridges, including the Cowry Bridge and the Independence Bridge, have suffered similar abuse and require urgent intervention to prevent potential tragedies.

Umahi lamented that previous efforts by the Federal Government to engage the illegal occupants were met with resistance, with some claiming that the matter was already in court.

“They have refused to vacate the area. They wrote to us saying the matter is in court. It seems what they are selling is more important to them than the lives of Lagosians. But we cannot allow that,” he said firmly.

He warned that the Nigerian public and the international community would blame the government if the bridge were to collapse and cause fatalities.

“God forbid, if a disaster happens, everyone will blame the government. Such a tragedy must never be allowed to occur before action is taken.”

Umahi concluded with a stern warning:

“Once rehabilitation is completed, we will not allow anyone to return to this place to avoid a recurrence.”