FG threatens to close Lagos section of Coastal Highway over safety violations

The Federal Government has warned that it could temporarily shut the Lagos section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway within two weeks if motorists and other road users continue violating safety regulations.

Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State Olufemi Dare issued the warning during an inspection of the highway.

Dare said the directive followed concerns raised by Minister of Works David Umahi over speeding, vandalism, illegal parking and other unsafe activities along the road.

According to the controller, the highway remains under construction and some bridges along the Lagos section have not yet been completed.

He said motorists had been recorded travelling at speeds of up to 100 or 120 kilometres per hour despite a 30km/h speed limit on sections where construction activities are ongoing.

The government also raised concerns about trucks parking illegally, unauthorised U-turns, motorcycles and tricycles operating on the road, roadside trading and vandalism of safety infrastructure.

Dare said authorities had recorded deaths on the highway and warned that continued violations could force the government to close the route temporarily.

The Lagos section of the coastal highway covers approximately 103 kilometres across two sections, with several major bridges still under construction.

Police deployment is also being increased along the route, while authorities plan to introduce additional surveillance measures and community-based coastal guards.

The government said motorists have two weeks to demonstrate better compliance before a decision is taken on shutting the road.