The infamous traffic congestion in Apapa, Lagos, is making a troubling comeback, threatening to disrupt port operations and daily commuting. Despite past interventions, evening gridlock is intensifying as trucks and tankers flood the port access roads.
Investigations by the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists reveal that while Apapa roads remain relatively clear during the day, truck queues begin forming by evening from Costain and Mile 2. Key choke points include Ijura-Olopa Bridge, Coconut Bus Stop, and Tin Can Island’s gates.
Truckers reportedly pay between ₦30,000 and ₦50,000 to secure spots in the queue. Sources allege that officials from the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), LASTMA, FRSC, and the Nigeria Police are complicit, allowing illegal tolls to flourish.
The worst-hit roads include Wharf Road, Warehouse Road, Commercial Road, Burma Road, and Creek Road.
By 5 PM, many motorists abandon their vehicles and resort to motorcycles to escape the gridlock.
Moses Fadipe, former National Coordinator of the Port Standing Task Team, blames the resurgence on vested interests profiting from the chaos. Martins Enibeli, President of Nigerian Institute of Shipping (NIS) and NILSCA, criticizes government inaction and calls for rail-based cargo evacuation, revitalization of Eastern and Delta ports, and relocation of bonded terminals away from port zones.
An anonymous senior official confirmed that a syndicate involving both state and non-state actors is profiting from the tolls.
Stakeholders are urging the federal government to dismantle the alleged racketeering network and restore order to Apapa’s transport corridors.