Image: Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway

The Federal Ministry of Works has announced a ban on commercial motorcycles and tricycles on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

The restriction, which takes effect this week, was announced in a statement signed by the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Mr Olufemi Dare.

Dare said that the decision was introduced “to protect the newly constructed superhighway from misuse and deterioration.”

He explained that the measures were necessary to preserve the road and ensure its long-term sustainability.

A serious road accident involving two trucks and a private car occurred on the Lagos Expressway on Monday morning, causing significant traffic disruption and leaving several people injured.

According to eyewitnesses and preliminary reports from emergency responders, the collision happened around 7:30 AM near the Mile 2 area of the expressway. One of the trucks, reportedly loaded with construction materials, allegedly lost control while attempting to overtake, slamming into the rear of the second truck before both vehicles careened into the oncoming car.

Rescue teams from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) quickly arrived at the scene. At least five individuals, including the driver of the car and passengers from the trucks, were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities have not yet confirmed any fatalities, but the extent of injuries is still being assessed.

Traffic built up rapidly in both directions as the wreckage partially blocked the carriageway. Commuters reported long queues stretching several kilometers, with many expressing frustration over the recurring accidents on the busy route.

FRSC officials have attributed the crash to possible speeding and reckless overtaking, common issues on the expressway. An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause, and the vehicles have been towed away to restore normal traffic flow.

Motorists are advised to exercise caution when using the Lagos Expressway, especially during peak hours, and to adhere strictly to speed limits and road safety rules.

Demands Immediate Arrest and Prosecution of Perpetrators

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has strongly condemned the gruesome murder of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku, and his associate.

In a press statement issued on Sunday, Senator Akume expressed profound shock, sadness, and outrage over the incident, describing it as a “reprehensible and unacceptable” act that constitutes a direct assault on the peace, reconciliation, and mutual trust being rebuilt across Benue State.

The SGF noted with concern that the killing occurred at a time when the state has been recording encouraging improvements in security and the gradual restoration of peaceful coexistence among its diverse ethnic, cultural, and religious groups.

“Enemies of peace must not be allowed to reverse the gains already recorded through dialogue, understanding, and collective sacrifice,” the statement said.

Senator Akume, who as former Governor of Benue State consistently advocated for peaceful coexistence, stressed that sustainable development and economic prosperity can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance, and mutual respect.

He urged all communities in the state to reject attempts by criminal elements to sow seeds of discord and hatred, warning that no individual or group should take the law into their own hands.

The SGF extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Alhaji Ardo Risku, the leadership and members of MACBAN, and all those affected by the tragedy.

He called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies to immediately launch a thorough, transparent, and painstaking investigation into the killings, insisting that “no stone must be left unturned” in identifying, arresting, and prosecuting all those involved.

Senator Akume recalled his earlier demand for justice following the horrific killings in Yelwata, where suspects have since been apprehended and are standing trial.

“The same resolve must be demonstrated in this case,” he said. “Those responsible for the murder of the MACBAN Chairman and his associate must likewise be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law.”

Quoting the SGF:

“The lives of every Nigerian are sacred. Those who believe they can undermine peace through violence and murder must understand that there will be no hiding place for them. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.”

The statement reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to tackling insecurity across the country, noting that the President has continued to equip security and intelligence agencies with the necessary support and resources.

Senator Akume urged residents of Benue State to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information, and support ongoing efforts to strengthen peace and harmonious coexistence.