IBADAN/Nigeria: In a compelling session on Wednesday, the House of Representatives rallied behind a crucial call for action, urging the federal government to take swift measures in constructing pedestrian bridges along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.
The resolute decision stemmed from a motion presented during the plenary by Tolulope Akande-Sadipe, the representative of Oluyole Federal Constituency. Akande-Sadipe passionately emphasized the urgent need for these bridges, citing alarming safety concerns due to their absence along this vital route.
“The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, traversing highly populated sections of the city, has become an essential corridor for daily activities,” expressed Akande-Sadipe. She underscored the critical nature of this infrastructure for the growing city of Ibadan, now globally ranked as the third-largest city per United Nations data.
However, the absence of pedestrian bridges has led to perilous situations for pedestrians and motorists alike, resulting in a distressing surge in fatal accidents. Akande-Sadipe highlighted the grim reality where people risk their lives daily while crossing the highway to access schools, homes, workplaces, and markets.
Expressing profound concern, Akande-Sadipe lamented the neglect of pedestrian bridges during the construction of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, dubbing the highway as a ‘Death Trap.’
The motion meticulously identified specific locations crucial for the installation of pedestrian bridges, including the Technical University, Toll Gate in Ibadan, Félele, Sóka, Sanyo, Bólúwaji, Academy, Eléruku, and various others along the expressway. Akande-Sadipe emphasized the life-saving significance of these bridges, particularly for commuters, notably school children, and the economic sustenance of these densely populated areas.
In a bid to prioritize safety and avert further tragedies, Akande-Sadipe urgently called upon the Federal Ministry of Works to allocate funds in the 2024 budget for the construction of these imperative pedestrian bridges. Additionally, she mandated the Committee on Works and Appropriation to ensure strict adherence to this critical safety measure.
The House of Representatives’ united resolution underscores the gravity of the situation and signals a firm stance on ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens traversing the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.
