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Lagos in Chaos: Bridge Closure Sparks Deadly Gridlock, Leaving Commuters Stranded for Hours

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Lagos in Chaos: Bridge Closure Sparks Deadly Gridlock, Leaving Commuters Stranded for Hours

Lagos in Chaos: Bridge Closure Sparks Deadly Gridlock, Leaving Commuters Stranded for Hours

Lagos, Nigeria – A traffic nightmare unfolded in Lagos on Wednesday, leaving thousands of commuters stranded for hours as the Independence Bridge closure in Falomo triggered an unprecedented gridlock across the city. The situation spiraled into tragedy, with reports of a seven-year-old boy dying in traffic after failing to reach the hospital on time, and a 70-year-old woman hospitalized after falling into a manhole while trekking to escape the congestion.

City in Gridlock: A Commute from Hell

What started as a routine road closure for bridge maintenance quickly descended into chaos, as Lagosians found themselves trapped in endless traffic stretching across Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Lekki. Stranded motorists blasted the government for poor planning, with some spending over ten hours on the road while others were forced to trek miles to reach their destinations.

In viral videos flooding social media, frustrated commuters vented their anger, calling the gridlock a disaster in the making.

“Welcome to Lagos! I spent four hours just trying to move a few kilometers. This city is unlivable!” lamented an X user, Chris Ejiofor.

Another commuter, Dr. Lakinbofa Goodluck, shared a distressing story of a friend who nearly collapsed from ulcer complications due to the prolonged stay in traffic, barely surviving thanks to an emergency food delivery from colleagues.

Tragedy Strikes: Death and Injury Amid the Standstill

While many cursed their luck in the excruciating gridlock, others faced unimaginable heartbreak.

A seven-year-old boy lost his life, unable to reach the hospital in time because the car carrying him was stuck for hours in traffic.

“The boy had been referred to a private hospital, but they couldn’t move because of the congestion. By the time they got out, it was too late,” a source close to the family revealed.

In another grim incident, a septuagenarian who had spent hours in traffic decided to trek home—only to fall into a hidden manhole, leaving her with severe injuries requiring multiple surgeries. Her family, still in shock, had been preparing to celebrate her 70th birthday this Sunday.

“We were planning a grand birthday for her. Now she’s in the hospital instead, fighting for her life,” her relative, Tosin Kassim, said.

Government Scrambles for Damage Control

As public outrage mounted, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu rushed to the site on Thursday, apologizing for the disruptions and admitting that the situation had spiraled beyond expectations.

“We understand the hardship this has caused Lagosians, but the bridge’s structural integrity was failing. Immediate repairs were necessary to avoid a disaster,” Sanwo-Olu explained.

Meanwhile, Federal Controller of Works, Olukorede Kesha, announced plans to reopen the bridge partially, revealing that engineers were racing against time to complete emergency work by Friday.

However, critics slammed the government for poor planning and lack of proactive measures, with popular TV anchor Rufai Oseni calling the situation “a joke of a leadership failure.”

Lagosians Left to Fend for Themselves

With no immediate relief in sight, Lagosians braced for more traffic horror in the coming weeks, as the bridge closure is expected to last until May 2025.

For now, residents are left with two options: battle the chaos or find alternative routes—if they exist at all.

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

 

The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.

The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.

Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.

Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.

As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

 

Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

 

Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:

“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”

 

This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.

 

 

According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.

 

 

“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”

 

Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.

 

 

By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

 

 

For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.

 

 

As one youth participant reflected:

“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”

 

The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.

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