Kara crash triggers 14-hour gridlock, sends transport fares soaring across Lagos

A truck accident at the Kara Bridge axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has triggered a severe traffic gridlock, leaving hundreds of motorists stranded for more than 14 hours and sending the resulting congestion across several parts of Lagos.

The prolonged holdup disrupted road users travelling in and out of Lagos, with commuters and commercial transport operators trapped for hours around Kara Bridge, Long Bridge, Magboro and Berger. The gridlock also spread to major roads and adjoining areas across Lagos, leaving workers, traders and other commuters struggling to navigate their daily journeys.

The congestion was worsened by ongoing repair works on the Kara Bridge and multiple incidents that restricted traffic flow. Reports said a multiple-vehicle crash involving seven vehicles occurred around the Kara Bridge area, blocking movement and adding to the congestion already caused by construction activities.

The situation deteriorated further after a container-laden truck reportedly fell around the Kara Bridge axis, severely restricting movement and leaving vehicles stuck for several hours. Some stranded motorists reportedly spent the night on the road, while others expressed frustration over the prolonged standstill.

With the gridlock spreading, workers and other commuters were forced to hustle and scramble to enter available buses just to get to their destinations. The shortage of available transport amid the surge in demand also pushed transportation fares sharply upward, with some commuters reportedly paying double and, in some cases, nearly triple the usual fare to secure a ride.

Some motorists reportedly resorted to driving against traffic in attempts to escape the congestion, further complicating traffic management efforts. Traffic officials, including operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), emergency responders, and other relevant agencies, were deployed to clear obstructions, manage traffic, and restore movement.

The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway connects Lagos with Ogun State and serves as a major route for commuters, commercial vehicles, and long-distance travellers. The Kara Bridge section has repeatedly experienced traffic challenges due to rehabilitation works and the heavy volume of vehicles using the route, prompting authorities to advise motorists to plan their journeys and expect delays while the repairs continue.