Reps order probe of illegal structures under Eko Bridge, others in Lagos

The House of Representatives has ordered an investigation into alleged illegal structures and commercial operations beneath Eko Bridge and other Federal bridges in Lagos State, citing concerns over possible damage to critical infrastructure and threats to public safety.

The lawmakers mandated the House Committees on Works and Public Assets to examine the developments and establish whether their occupants obtained the necessary permits and approvals from the relevant authorities.

The directive followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Lanre Okunlola, representing Surulere II Federal Constituency, Lagos State.

During deliberations, members raised concerns that unauthorised activities around Eko Bridge, particularly close to its foundations, had reportedly damaged vital structural components, prompting emergency engineering interventions.

They warned that allowing the encroachment to continue could compromise the bridges’ structural integrity, hinder regular inspections and maintenance, and endanger commuters and communities around the affected areas.

“The continued occupation of areas beneath and adjacent to Federal bridges may impede routine engineering inspections, emergency repairs and future expansion works while posing significant risks to commuters and adjoining communities,” the motion stated.

Eko Bridge is a major transport route linking Lagos Island with the Mainland and is under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Works.

The investigation will examine containers, warehouses, makeshift buildings, markets, workshops and other commercial establishments operating within the bridges’ right-of-way.

The Committee on Works is expected to assess whether the structures and business activities comply with the Federal Highways Act, relevant physical planning regulations and the Federal Ministry of Works’ guidelines.

Meanwhile, the Committee on Public Assets will investigate whether public property has been unlawfully occupied, leased or utilised in breach of existing laws.

It will also identify individuals, government agencies or organisations found responsible for any violations.

As part of the exercise, the House directed the Federal Ministry of Works, the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, FERMA, the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority, where applicable, and Lagos State physical planning authorities to provide relevant documents.

The requested records include approved engineering designs, survey plans, right-of-way maps, occupancy permits and other authorisations covering developments beneath and around the affected bridges.

The lawmakers also called on the relevant authorities to enforce existing regulations by removing any structures established illegally within Federal rights-of-way.

They further urged government agencies to develop sustainable measures for protecting, monitoring and maintaining Federal bridges across the country.

The two committees are expected to submit their reports to the House within six weeks to enable further legislative action.

Lawmakers blamed the growing presence of unauthorised developments, in part, on possible lapses in coordination among the Federal Ministry of Works, FERMA, the Lagos State Government and other relevant agencies.