Respite as LASG Orders Tankers, Trailers to Vacate Apapa-Oshodi Expressway

Oluchi Chibuzor

Apapa residents and commuters yesterday got the needed respite when the Lagos State Government (LASG) directed the immediate evacuation of all tankers and trailers from the Cele Bus Stop Inward Tin Can Port axis along the Apapa-Oshodi expressway.

In a statement, the Special Adviser on Transportation to the LASG, Sola Giwa said the directive aims to curb the indiscriminate parking of heavy-duty vehicles causing traffic congestion in the area.

These trailers and tankers have been notorious for obstructing traffic flow and causing gridlock along the Apapa-Oshodi expressway, creating significant challenges for commuters and residents.

Giwa stressed the government’s commitment to mitigating ongoing congestion issues and improving the transportation experience for citizens along the affected route.

The statement read, “In a decisive move to address the ongoing congestion and alleviate the challenges faced by commuters along the Cele Bus stop Inward Tin can 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 directives underscore the commitment of the state government to ensuring the smooth flow of traffic and minimising 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.

“Prioritising the safety and well-being of the public, the government emphasises 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.”

This latest directive aligns with previous measures taken by the Lagos State Government to address traffic issues caused by trailers and tankers parking indiscriminately along major roads.

A few months ago, the state government issued a final warning to port operators, especially petroleum tanker and container truck drivers, to vacate the Mile-2 axis of the Oshodi-Apapa expressway. The government also authorised its task force to take stringent actions, including arrests of defaulters.