Funso Doherty, former Lagos gubernatorial candidate, has condemned the severe hardship endured by Lagosians following the closure of the Independence Bridge at Bonny Camp, citing poor planning and insensitivity by the state government.
In an open letter addressed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday, Doherty described the traffic congestion caused by the repair works as “excruciating” and avoidable if better planning had been done.
“Many of us witnessed the severe hardship experienced by Lagos residents following the closure of the Independence Bridge and the commencement of road works. As you may be aware, countless Lagosians who left work at the close of business yesterday only arrived home in the early hours of this morning, having endured excruciating hours in gridlock,” Doherty wrote.
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He accused the government of failing to prioritise commuter welfare in infrastructure projects, arguing that Lagosians have long suffered from “poorly coordinated infrastructure works that disrupt daily life, hurt productivity, and diminish overall well-being.”
Doherty also expressed concerns over the broader economic, security, and health consequences of such disruptions. He referenced previous road projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, which he claimed revealed a pattern of the Lagos State Government failing to assert its authority in safeguarding residents’ interests when Federal Government projects are undertaken in the state.
“This situation is compounded by the ongoing leadership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly, which has rendered the Assembly inactive for weeks. The absence of legislative oversight and representation deprives Lagosians of a critical channel through which their concerns should be addressed,” he stated.
Doherty made three major demands from the government including, conducting “an immediate and thorough investigation into the causes of yesterday’s debacle to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences. If negligence or incompetence is found, those responsible must face appropriate consequences.”
“Ensure that robust impact assessments are mandatory for road construction projects, ensuring that alternative routes, adequate public communication, and effective mitigation plans are in place before any major road closures.
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“Always ensure the Lagos State Government exercises its authority and fulfills its obligation to expressly consider and protect the interests of Lagosians when collaborating with Federal agencies on projects within the State.
“Lagosians deserve better. Governance must prioritize the welfare of the people, and it is imperative that lessons are learned from yesterday’s ordeal,” Doherty concluded.
