Motorists and other road users plying the Lagos–Benin Expressway in Edo State have renewed calls for urgent Federal Government intervention over the deplorable condition of Ovia Bridge, warning that continued neglect poses a serious threat to human lives.
The road users said the worsening state of the bridge has continued to raise safety concerns, contributing to accidents, traffic congestion and fatalities along the busy highway connecting Lagos and Benin City.
They urged the Federal Government and relevant road authorities to take immediate action to rehabilitate the bridge before the situation deteriorates further and claims more lives.
Ovia Bridge is a critical section of the Lagos–Benin Expressway, a major transport corridor used daily by commercial drivers, commuters, private motorists and heavy-duty trucks.
The renewed appeal comes amid growing concerns over road safety in the country, with another fatal incident involving a traffic enforcement officer reported in Akure, Ondo State.
Tragedy reportedly struck along Hospital Road in Akure after a truck crushed a Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO) who attempted to intercept the vehicle for inspection.
According to eyewitness accounts, the officer tried to stop the truck, but the driver was reportedly unable to bring the vehicle to a halt in time, leaving the officer trapped beneath it.
Residents and fellow officers were said to have watched in distress as the incident unfolded.
The incident has since triggered reactions on social media, with some Nigerians warning traffic enforcement officers against standing directly in front of moving vehicles while attempting to stop motorists.
“Stop standing in front of moving vehicles,” some commenters cautioned, highlighting the dangers associated with attempting to intercept moving vehicles from the front.
The fatal incident in Akure has further underscored concerns about road safety and the risks faced by both motorists and traffic enforcement personnel.
For road users on the Lagos–Benin Expressway, the deteriorating condition of Ovia Bridge remains an urgent concern requiring decisive intervention rather than prolonged appeals.
They want the Federal Government and the relevant road agencies to prioritise the bridge’s rehabilitation, improve safety conditions and prevent further avoidable tragedies.
Authorities are being urged to act before another preventable accident turns into a national tragedy.
