Lagosians, yesterday, faced the reality of the new normal in commuting between the mainland and the island in the country’s commercial capital on the first working day since the partial six-month closure of the Third Mainland Bridge at the weekend.
It was a tough experience, better imagined than tasted for commuters, as traffic build-ups and stunted vehicular movements were recorded, not only on the bridge, but also on almost all the identified alternative routes across the metropolis.
And the lamentations are mounting from commuters over the gridlock, hike in fares, and dreadfully, a resurgence of traffic robberies.
There were reports of robberies on the alternative routes as motorists were attacked by hoodlums who smashed their vehicles to gain access and extort money and valuables.
A Twitter user, Laide Farawe Olayiwola, @LaideFarawe, narrated her ordeal: “Traffic robbers on Third Mainland Bridge. Some cars held in traffic were robbed shortly before getting to the Ring Road at 3:45p.m. The criminals were three. This is just the first traffic day on Third Mainland Bridge and the crime has begun.”
Another user, @SomtoSocial, said: “A robbery report on Third Mainland Bridge is currently true. Robbers are smashing windows and gaining access to cars, please stay safe, relevant authorities please take note.”
Also Victor, @ndulewe, said: “The traffic as a result of the third mainland bridge closure is absolutely insane. Awolowo Road, Obalende, Keffi, Sura, Osborne and all linking roads are blocked. No joy at all.” (Guardian)