The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Saturday, reopened Apongbon Bridge in the state, over 15 months after a fire outbreak at the market in its environs.
Road users and motorists around the area were thrown into panic on March 23 when an early morning fire broke out at Apongbon market, destroying several wooden shops.
Vehicles parked under the bridge were also razed by the inferno which enveloped a large section of the bridge.
Following the fire outbreak, the Lagos State Government has shut the Eko Bridge with alternative routes announced for diverting traffic and for the safety of motorists.
Also present at the reopening were the Permanent Secretary, Office of Infrastructure, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Lagos State, Olufemi Daramola.
Others in attendance were the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs Olukorede Keisha; and General Manager, Lagos State Public Works Corporation, Lateef Somide.
According to the governor in a Twitter post “Today, I am happy to announce that the hard work and collaboration between the Federal Government and Lagos State Government has paid off with the opening of the Eko Bridge that was closed 15 months ago in March 2021, after a tragic fire.
The bridge was severely damaged at the Apogbon section by a fire caused by illegal trading. The intensity of the inferno weakened major components and the supporting pillars of the bridge, prompting its closure for extensive repair on the entire stretch.
This opening brings relief and convenience to the lives of Lagos residents, making our daily commute smoother, easier and safer.
We are committed to maintaining and reinforcing the durability of this vital infrastructure.” The post read.
