TRACE Issues 24-Hour Ultimatum to Clear Oju-Ore Bridge Construction Area After Accident
OLORUNDARE ENIMOLA, Lagos
The Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) has ordered traders and commuters operating around the Oju-Ore axis of Ota to vacate the vicinity of an ongoing overhead bridge construction within 24 hours, following a fatal accident that almost claimed the life of a passerby.
The directive was announced on Thursday after an emergency security meeting convened by the Olota of Ota, Oba Abdulkabir Adeyemi Obalanlege, in response to the incident.
The meeting brought together representatives of TRACE, the Nigeria Police, the construction firm handling the project—Laralek Construction Company—as well as traditional rulers and leaders of commercial transport unions in the area.
According to officials, the accident occurred on Wednesday when a concrete pallet reportedly fell from the overhead bridge under construction at Oju-Ore, striking three pedestrians who were waiting to board vehicles.
One of the victims sustained critical injuries and was later confirmed dead while being transported to the hospital.
Speaking on behalf of the TRACE leadership, the Ogun West Zonal Commander, Mr. Ajibade Adekunle, said the ultimatum was issued to safeguard lives and prevent further incidents around the construction site.
He explained that, following the tragedy, security agencies immediately moved to assess the situation and agreed on stricter safety measures.
These include the resumption of intensified patrols and enforcement at identified flashpoints such as Sango Under Bridge, Tollgate, Oju-Ore and Iyana Iyesi, to deter traders and motorists who flout traffic and safety regulations.
“Having resolved to place the protection of human lives above all other considerations, we collectively agreed to give traders and commuters a 24-hour ultimatum to vacate the surroundings of the overhead bridge at Oju-Ore,” Adekunle said. “After this grace period, enforcement will be carried out against any individual found violating the directive.”
He added that clearing the area was necessary to allow construction work to proceed safely and to reduce the risk of further accidents involving members of the public.
Authorities have urged residents, traders and road users to comply fully with the directive, as security agencies intensify monitoring and enforcement to ensure adherence to safety measures around the construction zone.
