A series of overnight crashes on the Kara Bridge section of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway has caused severe traffic congestion stretching from Kara to Otedola Bridge and beyond, leaving thousands of motorists stranded during Friday’s morning rush.
According to emergency responders, the first major crash occurred at about 12:05 a.m. on the outbound carriageway towards Ibadan, involving five trucks and a Toyota Sienna. Preliminary investigations by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) indicate that excessive speed contributed to the collision. One man was confirmed dead, while another sustained injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment.
A second incident followed around 3:15 a.m. on the inbound lane heading towards Lagos when a Mazda commercial bus reportedly suffered brake failure. The driver was rescued and transported to a nearby hospital, while emergency officials quickly secured the scene to prevent further collisions.
Recovery efforts were further complicated by an overturned trailer and spilled paint on the roadway, slowing the removal of wreckage and forcing traffic into a single lane. Personnel from the FRSC, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Nigeria Police Force and other emergency agencies deployed heavy-duty equipment to clear the affected section of the expressway.
As of Friday morning, traffic remained at a standstill across large sections of the highway, with commuters reporting hours-long delays. Authorities have advised motorists to avoid the Kara Bridge corridor where possible and consider alternative routes, including the Ikorodu–Sagamu corridor, until full recovery operations are completed. Drivers have also been reminded to carry out routine vehicle maintenance, particularly brake checks, and to avoid speeding.
Emergency officials say one lane has been gradually reopened to traffic, but warned that congestion is likely to persist until all damaged vehicles are removed and the road is fully cleared. They urged motorists to remain patient and cooperate with traffic officers directing vehicles through the affected area.
