A civil society organisation, the Centre for Social Justice and Public Protection (CSJPP), has called on the Osun State Government to conduct an integrity test on the Olaiya Flyover to ensure its safety and structural stability.
The group emphasised the importance of prioritising public safety and cautioned against allowing political considerations to influence the decision-making process regarding the bridge’s maintenance and use.
Speaking on the development in a statement signed by its coordinator, Akin Akanji, a copy of which was obtained by DAILY POST, CSJPP urged stakeholders to support the state government in carrying out due diligence on the bridge.
The statement read, “As a group that deals with public protection, it is our duty to make sure the state government rises to its responsibilities, among which includes the protection of lives and property.
“We have observed the claims and counterclaims by the two major political parties and some stakeholders concerning the Olaiya Bridge; we want everyone to come together to know the true state of this bridge.
“We want to urge the state government not to fall for political manipulation concerning this issue as this is something that affects the well-being of those the governor is governing over.
“Also, we want to appeal to the opposition and other stakeholders to allow the bridge to be subjected to an integrity test in order to determine the true position of the bridge.
“We must also not fail to tell the state government not to play cheap politics concerning the bridge. Experts should be invited to look into it, and necessary adjustments should be made as recommended.”
The group, which noted visible cracks on both sides of the bridge, raised further concerns about its structural integrity and insisted that the findings have amplified calls for an urgent evaluation of the flyover to prevent potential hazards.
The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, had recently directed the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to enforce a ban on heavy-duty trucks from accessing the flyover.
The directive was issued on October 23, 2024, citing technical reports and safety concerns that raised alarms about the structure’s condition.
The Olaiya Flyover was constructed during the tenure of former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola.
Questions regarding its durability have surfaced in recent times, prompting calls for a thorough assessment.
The government’s decision aims to mitigate risks associated with potential structural failure and ensure the safety of residents and commuters who rely on the bridge daily.
Describing the decision as a preemptive step, Governor Adeleke directed the Ministry “to erect barricades across the bridge to allow only cars and buses to ply through the road.”
“As a step towards implementing the directive, the Governor also instructed the Ministry to issue a travel advisory with radio jingles to sensitise members of the public and the transport ecosystem,” the statement said.
The Osun State Government has assured the public that its decision to ban heavy-duty trucks from using the Olaiya Bridge is aimed at protecting public safety and preserving state assets.
This precautionary measure comes as the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure conducts a comprehensive review of the bridge’s technical condition.
The decision, however, has sparked criticism from the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), which labelled it a politically motivated move.
The party alleged that the action was an attempt to undermine the achievements of former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, who is now the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.
Conduct integrity test on Olaiya Flyover — Group urges Osun govt