Reps Probe Illegal Structures Under Eko Bridge, Give Committees Six Weeks

The House of Representatives has ordered an investigation into alleged illegal encroachment and unauthorised commercial activities beneath Eko Bridge and other Federal bridges in Lagos State, warning that such developments could threaten critical infrastructure and endanger commuters.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Lanre Okunlola, who represents Surulere II Federal Constituency of Lagos State. The lawmakers expressed concern that commercial activities around Eko Bridge, particularly near its foundations, had reportedly damaged structural components and required emergency engineering intervention.

The investigation will examine containers, makeshift structures, warehouses, markets, workshops and other businesses operating within the bridges’ right-of-way. It will also establish whether public assets have been unlawfully occupied, leased or used without proper authorisation.

The House warned that continued encroachment could weaken the bridges’ structural stability, shorten their lifespan and obstruct routine inspections, maintenance and emergency repairs. It also raised concerns about the safety risks such activities could pose to commuters and nearby communities.

Eko Bridge is a major transport link between Lagos Mainland and Lagos Island and falls under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Works. Lawmakers said it remained unclear whether the occupants of commercial establishments beneath and around the bridge had obtained valid approvals from the appropriate Federal authorities.

To establish the facts, the House directed the Federal Ministry of Works, the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority, where applicable, and Lagos State physical planning authorities to submit relevant records. These include approved engineering drawings, survey plans, right-of-way maps, occupancy approvals and documents relating to developments around the affected bridges.

The Committee on Works is expected to determine the legality of the structures and commercial activities, while the Committee on Public Assets will investigate whether public assets have been compromised, occupied, leased or used in violation of existing laws. The committees will also identify individuals, agencies or organisations responsible for any confirmed violations and recommend appropriate enforcement measures, including the removal of structures found to be illegally occupying Federal right-of-way areas.

The lawmakers also called for long-term measures to protect and monitor Federal bridges nationwide, citing possible gaps in coordination among the Federal Ministry of Works, FERMA, the Lagos State Government and other relevant agencies. The committees are expected to submit their findings to the House within six weeks for further legislative action.

The investigation follows previous structural concerns involving Eko Bridge. In May 2026, Works Minister David Umahi announced emergency intervention after damage reportedly linked to illegal sand-mining activities around the bridge. He said a barge had struck a pile cap, damaging supporting piles and prompting plans for urgent repairs. The Federal Government subsequently announced the temporary closure of one carriageway to facilitate the work. The latest inquiry could clarify the status of commercial activities beneath the bridges and establish measures to prevent further encroachment.