Traffic Jam: Passengers Groan as Transporters Hike Fares

The traffic gridlock to and fro popular destinations like Berger, Ojota, and the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has grown worse by each passing day.

A severe gridlock has brought traffic to a standstill, with many road users stuck for hours and drivers of commercial buses hiking transport fares.

The congestion started early, around 8:00 am on Thursday, particularly at Kara Bridge, where business activities were in full swing at the cattle market ahead of the Eid-El-Fitri celebrations.

As of 1:00 pm, the traffic showed no signs of abating, leaving commuters frustrated and desperate for alternative routes.

Around 9:00 am on Thursday, the Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) confirmed the situation in a post on X.

“We are currently experiencing massive vehicular outflow from Tollgate heading inward Secretariat, Otedola bridge, and Berger due to ongoing market activities Kara market.”

At CMS in Lagos Island, drivers heading towards Berger opted out of the route, fearing they would get stuck in traffic. Passengers were forced to explore alternative routes to reach their destinations.

Some commercial drivers took a detour through Ojota, heading towards Alausa Secretariat to avoid the jam.

The gridlock has caused significant disruptions, with commuters left to endure hours of traffic congestion. The situation highlights the need for improved traffic management and infrastructure to alleviate the suffering of Lagos road users.

To make up for the hours spent in traffic, commercial bus drivers have continued to increase transport fares. For instance, drivers in Iyana Oworo were charging N1,000 from passengers heading to Berger. In Berger as well, drivers of commercial buses are charging N1500 from passengers heading towards Magboro, Mowe, Ibafo, and environs.