Lagosians stuck in traffic as Tinubu attends ECOWAS 50th anniversary celebration

Parts of Lagos Island were on lockdown Wednesday as President Bola Tinubu attended the 50th anniversary celebration of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), leading to heavy traffic gridlock that left many commuters stranded.

The president, who arrived in Lagos on Tuesday evening, is participating in high-level events marking the golden jubilee of the regional bloc. His presence has prompted extensive security arrangements, particularly around Ikoyi, Falomo, Victoria Island, and surrounding areas.

Security operatives blocked several roads, causing severe traffic congestion that drew frustration from motorists and commuters. Many have expressed their anger, accusing the government of poor planning and failing to prioritise the movement needs of Lagosians.

This is frustrating. We are stuck for hours just because of an event. It shows a lack of regard for ordinary Nigerians,” one commuter lamented. “This could have been held in Abuja.”

In anticipation of the traffic disruption, the Lagos State Government had earlier announced traffic diversions and advised motorists to use alternative routes. However, the implementation appears to have done little to ease the gridlock experienced by road users.

Tinubu, alongside former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), arrived at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) on Wednesday to commemorate the milestone. While at the historic NIIA Conference Chamber, where the ECOWAS founding treaty was signed in 1975, the president signed the ECOWAS 50th Anniversary Card.

“A significant moment reflecting on the past and reaffirming our commitment to regional unity and cooperation,” Dada Olusegun, a presidential media aide, said in a post on X.

The presidency had earlier announced that Tinubu will not be in a hurry to return to Abuja, he will commission and flag off several projects both physically and virtually while in Lagos. The president is billed to return to Abuja after Eid el Kabir, which will be held on June