Motorists and commuters on the ever-busy Old Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway are currently groaning under severe traffic gridlock caused by ongoing road construction and rehabilitation works along major sections of the route. The expressway, one of the most vital links between Lagos and Ogun States, has become a daily nightmare for thousands of road users who spend hours in traffic jams stretching across Sango, Ijoko, Ifo, Itori, and Ewekoro.
The construction, part of the federal and state governments’ efforts to improve road infrastructure and enhance transportation efficiency, has led to partial lane closures, diversions, and a reduction in road width, resulting in massive congestion — especially during peak morning and evening hours.
For commercial drivers, the situation has translated into economic hardship. Many complain that the long hours spent in traffic have drastically reduced their daily earnings. “Before, I could make up to five or six trips between Sango and Abeokuta in a day, but now I barely manage two,” lamented Mr. Tunde Adebayo, a commercial bus driver. “We are happy the road is being fixed, but the suffering is too much.”
Private car owners and passengers are not spared either. Several motorists have decried the poor traffic coordination in certain areas where road diversions are not clearly marked. Many say they spend between two to three hours covering short distances that should take less than 20 minutes.
In response to the worsening traffic situation, the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE) has intensified its presence along the corridor. The agency has deployed additional personnel to strategic points such as Sango Under Bridge, Joju, Ijoko Junction, and Itori, where the congestion is most severe. TRACE officers are working round the clock to manage traffic flow, control unruly drivers, and ensure that road users comply with safety regulations.
TRACE Commander and Chief Executive, Cdr. Seni Ogunyemi, in a statement, appealed to motorists to exercise patience and cooperate with traffic officers while the construction lasts. He noted that the current challenges are temporary pains that will lead to long-term gains once the project is completed.
“We understand the inconvenience motorists are facing, but the construction is necessary to bring lasting relief to all users of this corridor. TRACE is fully on the ground to control traffic, prevent road crashes, and ensure minimal disruption,” Ogunyemi assured.
Residents, though frustrated by the gridlock, have expressed optimism that the project will ultimately bring socio-economic benefits to the area. The improved expressway is expected to ease inter-state transportation, attract more investment to Ogun State, and reduce the wear and tear on vehicles caused by the previously dilapidated road surface.
Until the completion of the rehabilitation work, however, patience remains the only option for motorists battling the daily gridlock. As TRACE continues its enforcement and control efforts, commuters hope that contractors will speed up the pace of work and deliver the much-anticipated relief soon.
