Truck overturns on Otedola Bridge, triggers massive gridlock on Lagos-Ibadan expressway

A heavy-duty truck on Wednesday overturned on the Otedola Bridge axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, causing severe traffic congestion on both the inward and outward sections of the road.

The Mack truck, which was conveying two 20-foot containers, reportedly developed a mechanical fault while heading inward toward the Secretariat.

The resulting gridlock stretched beyond the Kara Bridge, leaving many motorists and commuters stranded in prolonged traffic.

According to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the truck developed a battery-related mechanical fault at the location.

The agency explained that the truck eventually overturned during an attempted private recovery operation, causing the containers to fall onto the roadway and obstruct traffic flow.

LASTMA stated: “A Mack truck conveying two 20ft containers developed a battery/mechanical fault on Otedola Bridge inward Secretariat. During an attempted private recovery, the truck overturned, causing the containers to fall onto the roadway.

“A crane is on the way, while a high-capacity tow truck is already on the ground. LASTMA Rescue and Recovery Team is also at the scene for vehicle removal and traffic control, with personnel fully deployed.

“Traffic backlog has extended beyond Kara Bridge. Recovery operations are ongoing. Further updates will follow as events progress.”

Accidents on the Otedola Bridge have become a recurring safety and traffic management concern in Lagos.

The bridge is a strategic corridor along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, linking Lagos with other states in the South-West and several parts of the country.