LAGOS, Nigeria — The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has warned motorists against driving against traffic on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway following heavy rainfall that caused severe gridlock along the busy corridor.
The FRSC Sector Commander for Lagos State issued the warning in a statement on Wednesday, urging motorists to exercise patience and adhere to traffic rules to avoid accidents and further disruptions. The command noted that some motorists had resorted to driving against traffic to escape the gridlock, a dangerous practice that often leads to head-on collisions and loss of lives.
According to the FRSC, the heavy downpour resulted in flooding in several sections of the expressway, reducing visibility and making the road slippery. Motorists were advised to reduce speed, maintain safe distances, and avoid overtaking in hazardous conditions.
The FRSC spokesperson confirmed that personnel had been deployed to strategic points along the expressway to manage traffic and assist stranded motorists. The command also appealed to drivers to cooperate with traffic management officials and refrain from actions that could exacerbate the situation.
The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a major artery connecting Lagos to other parts of the South-West, has experienced traffic congestion in recent days due to the combination of heavy rainfall and ongoing repair works on some sections of the road. Motorists have been advised to consider alternative routes where possible.
The FRSC reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of all road users and warned that violators of traffic regulations would be sanctioned in accordance with the law. The command also urged motorists to report any emergencies or accidents to the nearest FRSC office or call the corps’ emergency lines.
The heavy rainfall, which has persisted for several days, has caused significant flooding in low-lying areas along the expressway, particularly around the Kara and Warewa sections, where water levels have risen considerably. This has compounded the already challenging traffic situation, as many motorists have been forced to navigate through waterlogged roads, increasing the risk of mechanical breakdowns and accidents.
The FRSC has also expressed concern over the growing trend of motorists disregarding traffic rules during adverse weather conditions, noting that such behaviour not only endangers their own lives but also puts other road users at risk. The corps has intensified its public enlightenment campaigns, urging drivers to plan their journeys carefully, monitor weather updates, and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall.
In addition to the warning, the FRSC has collaborated with other government agencies, including the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE), to ensure a coordinated response to the traffic challenges on the expressway. Joint patrols have been deployed to critical sections of the road to monitor compliance and provide assistance to motorists in distress.
The FRSC has also reminded motorists that driving against traffic, also known as “one-way” driving, is a serious offence that carries severe penalties, including fines, impoundment of vehicles, and possible prosecution. The corps has warned that it will not hesitate to enforce these penalties to deter motorists from engaging in this reckless behaviour.
As the rainy season continues, the FRSC has advised motorists to ensure their vehicles are in good condition, particularly the brakes, tyres, and wipers, to reduce the risk of accidents on wet roads. The corps has also encouraged motorists to carry emergency kits, including reflective triangles and first aid supplies, to handle any unforeseen circumstances.
The Lagos-Ibadan Expressway remains a critical route for the movement of goods and people between the South-West and other parts of the country, and the FRSC has assured the public that it remains committed to ensuring the safety and smooth flow of traffic on the corridor. The corps has called on all road users to cooperate with traffic management officials and to prioritize safety over speed, particularly during adverse weather conditions. For now, the FRSC continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as necessary.
