Traffic movement along the Lagos/Ore/Benin Expressway was severely disrupted on Wednesday when truck drivers blocked the Oniparaga section over allegations of extortion by police officers in Ondo State. The protest led to a major gridlock, trapping commuters, motorists, and passengers for several hours as vehicles came to a standstill on the busy highway. Frustrated travelers appealed to authorities to intervene swiftly to alleviate the hardship caused by the prolonged congestion. The incident drew widespread attention, with many expressing concern over road safety and the impact on daily commutes.
The Ondo State Police Command has denied any involvement in extortion or misconduct by its personnel linked to the disruption. In a statement, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, dismissed reports circulating on social media as false and misleading. According to the police, preliminary investigations revealed that the blockage was caused by a single tanker driver who intentionally obstructed the highway after a dispute with officers carrying out lawful duties. The command emphasized that the incident was not part of a broader protest against police extortion, as many had claimed.
The police further disclosed that Commissioner of Police Felix Ohagwu had ordered the immediate deployment of additional officers to the Oniparaga area. These personnel were tasked with restoring normal traffic flow, managing the situation, and ensuring the safety of all road users. The command urged the public to ignore unverified information and to rely only on official updates for accurate details. It stressed the importance of avoiding misinformation that could escalate tensions or mislead the public.
The disruption highlighted ongoing challenges related to road safety, traffic management, and public trust in law enforcement. While the police maintained that the incident was isolated and not part of a larger protest, the event underscored the need for improved communication between authorities and the public. Many commuters expressed frustration over the lack of timely information during the gridlock, which worsened the situation. As traffic gradually resumed, authorities continue to monitor the area closely to prevent recurrence.
The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between law enforcement duties and public perception, especially in high-traffic corridors like the Lagos/Ore/Benin Expressway. Moving forward, transparent communication and swift response mechanisms will be crucial in maintaining order and public confidence.
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