Umahi denounces closure of Independence Bridge in Lagos without his permission

Minister of Works, David Umahi, has expressed shock over the unapproved closure of the Independence Bridge in Lagos, stating he was not informed about the decision.

During a site visit on Thursday, April 3, the former governor of Ebonyi State described the situation as “very unfortunate,” criticizing the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs. Olukorede Keisha, for acting unilaterally.

Umahi emphasized that such a significant move in a city like Lagos should have received ministerial approval and undergone proper impact assessment, even in emergency situations.

“I wasn’t notified. The Controller acted independently, and that’s regrettable,” he said.

He issued a strong warning to all engineers and controllers nationwide, stating that no road or bridge should be closed without clearance from the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary and the Minister.

Apologizing to President Bola Tinubu and Lagos residents, Umahi took full responsibility for the disruption, noting that proper planning could have avoided a total closure. He announced that the bridge would be temporarily reopened by Sunday, with permanent repairs scheduled to follow within two weeks.