Lagos was thrown into chaos on Wednesday as major roads were shut down for the 50th anniversary celebration of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), held at Eko Hotels and Suites.
The event, attended by President Bola Tinubu and other West African leaders, led to severe traffic congestion across the city, particularly in Ikoyi and Victoria Island. Key routes like Alfred Rewane Road, Falomo Bridge, and Ahmadu Bello Way were completely closed to regular traffic.
Despite a travel advisory issued by the Lagos State Government on Monday, many commuters were caught off guard. Alternative routes—including Adetokunbo Ademola Road, Ozumba Mbadiwe, and Akin Adesola—failed to ease the gridlock, leaving thousands stranded.
A frustrated Lagos resident, Dr. Adeola Akin, lamented the impact:
“I’ve lost millions today missing an important business meeting. Why must the whole city shut down because the president is in town?”
Commercial drivers were also hit hard. Raheem Adeola, a bus driver, said the disruption cost him his daily income.
“I’ve been in traffic for hours, but my boss still expects full payment. Should we leave Lagos every time the president visits?” he asked.
In Oshodi, a commuter shared how she had to sleep at her sister’s house in Surulere, unable to return home to Lekki.
“Blocking access like this sends the wrong message. We’re citizens too,” she said.
As of press time, several roads leading into Victoria Island remained closed, with security personnel strictly controlling access.
