Reps Order Probe of Illegal Structures Beneath Eko Bridge, Other Lagos Bridges Over Safety Fears

The House of Representatives has ordered an investigation into illegal encroachment and unauthorised commercial activities beneath Eko Bridge and other Federal bridges in Lagos State, warning that the developments could compromise critical infrastructure and endanger commuters.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Lanre Okunlola, the member representing Surulere II Federal Constituency of Lagos State, during plenary presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.

The House mandated its Committees on Works and Public Assets to examine the legality of containers, makeshift structures, warehouses, markets, workshops and other commercial establishments operating within the bridges’ right-of-way.

Lawmakers expressed concern that unauthorised activities around Eko Bridge, particularly near its foundations, had reportedly damaged critical structural components and necessitated emergency engineering intervention.

The motion stated that “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 House questioned whether occupants had obtained valid approvals from appropriate Federal authorities and directed the committees to establish compliance with the Federal Highways Act, applicable planning regulations and Federal Ministry of Works guidelines.

The Committee on Works is to determine the legality of the structures and commercial activities, while the Committee on Public Assets will ascertain whether any public asset has been compromised, occupied, leased or alienated contrary to existing laws, and identify those responsible.

The House directed the Federal Ministry of Works, the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency, the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority and Lagos State physical planning authorities to submit approved engineering drawings, survey plans, right-of-way maps, occupancy approvals and other relevant records.

It called for enforcement measures, including the removal of structures found to be illegally occupying Federal right-of-way, and proposed long-term measures to protect, monitor and preserve Federal bridges nationwide.

Lawmakers attributed the proliferation of unauthorised developments partly to possible coordination gaps among the Federal Ministry of Works, FERMA, the Lagos State Government and other relevant agencies.

The proposed investigation follows earlier structural concerns involving Eko Bridge. In May 2026, Minister of Works David Umahi announced emergency intervention after illegal sand-mining activities reportedly damaged the bridge’s supporting infrastructure, with a barge striking a pile cap and damaging supporting piles, prompting the temporary closure of one carriageway.

The committees are expected to report back to the House within six weeks for further legislative action.