Lokoja-Abuja Highway gridlock blamed on contractors and VIPs

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has attributed persistent traffic gridlock on the Lokoja-Abuja highway to the actions of construction companies and the behavior of certain motorists. During a stakeholders' meeting organized by the Kogi State government, FRSC Deputy Corridor Commander Abraham Daniel reported that contractors frequently close long stretches of the federal highway without providing adequate alternative routes for the motoring public.

Daniel noted that while the FRSC successfully engaged companies to clear the Banda axis, they have struggled to reach contractors at the Amariya and Karara axes to resolve congestion. In addition to construction issues, the FRSC identified human, mechanical, and environmental factors as primary causes of gridlock.

The Corps also issued an appeal to VIPs and senior officials to cooperate with traffic officers and follow instructions at congestion points. Motorists were urged to plan journeys in advance, and transport unions were encouraged to improve driver education to combat impatience and indiscipline on the road.