Lagos orders trucks, tankers parked on Apapa-Oshodi expressway to vacate immediately

The Lagos state government has ordered trailers and tankers to vacate the Cele bus stop, inward Tincan Port axis, with immediate effect. 

The articulated vehicles are often parked on the route along the Apapa-Oshodi expressway, while obstructing free flow of traffic.

Sola Giwa, special adviser on transportation to Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos, announced the directive in a statement on Wednesday.

Giwa said the order aims to “address the ongoing congestion and alleviate the challenges faced by commuters” along the axis.

“In a decisive move to address the ongoing congestion and alleviate the challenges faced by commuters along the Cele bus stop inward Tincan Port axis, the Lagos State Government has issued a directive instructing all tankers and trailers to stop the indiscriminate parking along the corridor forthwith,” the statement reads.

“The directive underscores the commitment of the State Government to ensuring the smooth flow of traffic and minimizing disruptions caused by the persistent presence of these heavy-duty vehicles in the specified location, saying the order aims to enhance the overall mobility experience for residents and commuters in the affected area.

“Prioritizing the safety and well-being of the public, the government emphasizes the importance of a clear and unobstructed road network, urging tanker and trailer drivers to comply with this directive or be sanctioned in line with the State Transport Reform Law.”

In 2018, Yemi Osinbajo, former vice-president, had ordered the commencement of an operation to rid the Apapa-Oshodi expressway of perennial gridlock.

Previous attempts by Sanwo-Olu to rid the busy route of stationary articulated trucks also yielded little. The tankers and trailers often return after a few days of enforcement.