FG Threatens To Shut Down Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Over Safety Violations

The Federal Government has threatened to shut down the Lagos section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway in the next two weeks if motorists continue to violate safety rules.

The warning was issued on Monday by the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Engr. Olufemi Dare, on the directive of the Minister of Works, David Umahi.

Dare said the decision follows persistent speeding, vandalism and illegal activities on the highway, which is still under construction.

He said despite a 30km/h speed limit, some motorists drive at 120km/h on sections where bridges and other works are still ongoing, leading to loss of lives almost daily.

“Within two weeks, if there's no improvement on all these issues, then we have no option than to come back and shutdown this road" he said.

The Controller listed other violations to include illegal U-turns, parking of trucks and trailers on the road, use of Okada and Keke, street hawking, animal grazing and erection of shanties along the corridor.

He also raised alarm over vandalism, disclosing that at least 5km of ClearVu fencing and 18km of concrete covers have been stolen at night.

He said government is considering replacing the steel fences with concrete barriers and installing CCTV cameras.

To tighten security, he said the government will recruit 40 coastal guards for Section 1 of the highway, with four persons drawn from each host community, to work with the police. More guards will be recruited for Section 2.

The Lagos section of the highway is about 103km - Section 1 is 47.4km and Section 2 is 56km - with 20 major bridges, many of which are still under construction.

Dare said motorists can use the Lekki-Epe Expressway as alternative if the coastal road is shut.