The Federal Controller of Works, Lagos State, Olukorede Kesha, has appealed to motorists to use alternative routes to avert gridlock as repairs begin on Monday along the Adekunle ramps of the Third Mainland Bridge. 

Ms Kesha made the appeal on Sunday while addressing journalists on the 11.8-kilometre Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos.

She said the repairs would begin on November 6, and the Adekunle exit ramp would be closed to traffic from 9.00 am. for two weeks’ rehabilitation, after which work would move to other areas.

She said the Adekunle section of the Third Mainland Bridge had four ramps that had a convergence point, adding that repair of all the ramps would be completed within five weeks.

She said the sensitisation became necessary to guide motorists, assuring that the Third Mainland Bridge was open and free for use except for those that would want to connect Adekunle from the bridge.

“We are here to sensitise Lagosians on the forthcoming closure of the Third Mainland Bridge tomorrow, November 6. By 9:00 am., the two access ramps to Adekunle will be closed to traffic.

“What that means is that if you are coming from Iyana Oworo, you can go straight. And if you are heading for Lagos Island, the road is still free for you; that bridge is still free for you.

“You can use it straight to the Island, but per adventure, if you are going to Adekunle, you will not be able to do that if you are coming from Iyana Oworo,” she said.

The controller said motorists coming from the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway/Toll Gate/Ogudu axis inwards on Lagos Island would not be able to access Adekunle/Ebute-Metta from the Third Mainland Bridge.

Ms Kesha urged motorists to make use of alternative routes such as Carter Bridge, Gbagada, Ikorodu Road, Ojota, and Funsho Williams Avenue to avoid congestion on the Third Mainland Bridge.

She assured that signage had already been placed at strategic locations including billboards, while traffic officials would be on ground to help motorists.

She urged motorists and other road users to be patient and obey officials and traffic rules during the period of repairs.

She stressed earlier announcements on the scope of work announced by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, which included resurfacing of the entire bridge, replacement of expansion joints, and solar light installation, among others.

The controller assured that all vandalised furniture on the highway, including guard rails, would be replaced.

She appealed to the public to be vigilant and report vandals destroying common assets. 

(NAN)