The federal government has categorically debunked rumors suggesting that the iconic Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos is on the verge of collapse, assuring the public of its structural integrity.
During an inspection of the bridge on Thursday, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, dismissed circulating social media claims that the bridge is shaking. She described the rumors as “false and malicious” while urging Nigerians to disregard the misinformation.
Mrs. Kesha emphasized that the bridge remains safe for use, stressing that the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing continuously monitors its condition. “We are using this opportunity to tell the motoring public, Lagosians, and all Nigerians that the bridge is safe. Its integrity is not in doubt,” she assured.
She also noted that ministry officials, as well as millions of Lagosians, regularly use the bridge, underscoring its safety.
Criticizing the source of the rumors, Kesha said, “The rumor is the handiwork of mischief columnists – those who are idle and those who think that the political atmosphere is too quiet for them.”
This response highlights growing concerns over the role of social media in spreading falsehoods capable of inciting panic among the public. Kesha appealed to Nigerians to avoid engaging in or spreading unverified reports.
The viral nature of the collapse rumors on platforms like Twitter and WhatsApp raised alarm among Lagosians, many of whom depend on the Third Mainland Bridge for daily commutes. Built in 1990, the bridge connects Lagos Island to the mainland and remains one of the busiest highways in Africa.
At 11.8 kilometers, the Third Mainland Bridge was Africa’s longest bridge until 1996, when Egypt’s 6th October Bridge claimed the title. It plays a critical role in Lagos’s infrastructure, accommodating thousands of vehicles daily.
The bridge underwent partial closure in July 2020 for extensive repairs, which were completed in February 2021. These repairs, supervised by the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, included joint replacement and resurfacing to ensure durability.
Kesha pointed to these recent efforts as proof of the government’s commitment to maintaining the bridge. “The government is not negligent when it comes to critical infrastructure. We will not compromise on safety,” she said.
