Update: Lagos Residents Stranded as Reuben Abati Criticizes Road Closures for President Tinubu’s Visit [VIDEO]

 

The city of Lagos ground to a near halt on Tuesday, May 27, as major roads were barricaded to make way for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s motorcade, leading to heavy gridlock and leaving commuters stranded for hours. As frustrations boiled over among residents, veteran journalist and respected media personality, Dr. Reuben Abati, voiced his outrage over what he described as the unnecessary and inconsiderate road closures orchestrated by officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).

President Tinubu’s visit to Lagos was tied to a series of high-profile events, including the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the commissioning of multiple state projects. He is also expected to observe the upcoming Muslim festival within the state, adding more ceremonial layers to his stay. However, the fanfare was overshadowed by the sheer inconvenience it brought upon the everyday life of Lagosians.

Commuters across the state faced extended delays, gridlocks, and confusion, with several roads blocked without prior comprehensive public notice. The lack of adequate alternative routes or real-time communication from LASTMA only worsened the situation, prompting widespread public criticism.

Abati, who has long been a prominent voice in national discourse, did not mince words during his morning broadcast, condemning the authorities for what he termed a blatant disregard for the daily struggles of ordinary citizens. Having personally experienced the snarling traffic caused by one of the blocked roads, the former presidential spokesperson channeled the frustration of many Lagosians live on air.

“There is no justification for holding an entire city hostage simply because the President is visiting,” Abati stated. “People have businesses to attend to, children have schools to get to, emergencies happen every day. This kind of logistical mishandling is not only outdated—it is disrespectful to the citizens.”

His remarks sparked immediate reactions on social media and talk radio, with many Lagosians echoing his sentiments. Videos and photos showing long lines of vehicles trapped in unrelenting traffic made the rounds online, with numerous commuters lamenting hours lost and appointments missed due to the traffic chaos.

The recurring practice of shutting down major routes for high-profile visits is not new to Lagos, yet each instance reignites debates around citizen rights, urban mobility, and the use of state power. Critics argue that a more balanced approach could be adopted—one that ensures the security and dignity of state officials without sacrificing the convenience and freedom of the governed.

Public figures and urban planners alike have long called for improved traffic management policies that reflect the reality of life in Africa’s most populous city. With over 20 million residents and a notoriously congested road network, Lagos cannot afford to rely on outdated traffic control measures that prioritize optics over efficiency.

While security for the President is non-negotiable, many believe that the solution lies in advanced planning and better coordination, especially in a megacity with a volatile transport system. The lack of a mass transit alternative exacerbates the problem, as the majority of residents are dependent on road-based transportation.

Abati's criticism shines a spotlight not just on the current administration's handling of high-profile visits, but also on broader issues of urban governance, inclusivity, and respect for the Nigerian citizen. His commentary, while passionate, reflects a deeper societal concern about accountability and the persistent disconnect between leadership decisions and public interest.

Calls are now growing louder for the Lagos State Government and federal security agencies to collaborate on less disruptive strategies during future visits by dignitaries. As Lagosians continue to grapple with the aftershocks of Tuesday's lockdown, one thing is clear: the citizens are watching—and they expect better.

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