The Federal Government has taken steps to ease the severe traffic congestion along Abuja – Lokoja Highway, following a disruption occasioned by a standoff between truck drivers and military personnel over the weekend.
The incident, which reportedly involved the smashing of a truck’s windscreen, led to a blockade of a portion of the road by truck drivers, resulting in severe traffic gridlock along the alignment.
This caused significant delays and hardship to road users travelling towards Lokoja and other destinations during this festive season.
In response, the Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi has directed the immediate opening of already completed sections of the Expressway, approved deployment of all necessary measures to restore free movement and ease the hardship being experienced by the road users.
In a statement released by the Ministry revealed that the directive, which was promptly implemented on Sunday, 21st December, 2025, helped to decongest the affected corridor and improve traffic flow.
The Federal Controller of Works, Kogi State, Engr. Patiko Isah disclosed that “The Field Headquarters, in collaboration with Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other security agencies, restored the free flow of traffic at about 2:00 a.m., today.”
While addressing the development, Engr. Umahi appealed to motorists to remain patient, orderly, and cautious, particularly, during this peak holiday travel period.
He reassured Nigerians of the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable road transportation nationwide.
The Minister also extended his best wishes to Nigerians for a peaceful, safe, and joyous celebration.
Reports from the scene indicate that the congestion began building on Saturday and persisted into Sunday morning, with little to no movement reported in some sections.
Travelers heading south for Christmas celebrations were the hardest hit, with many spending upwards of 10 hours in standstill traffic.
Social media posts from affected motorists highlighted the chaos, with complaints of being stuck for extended periods and advice to others to consider alternative travel options due to the severe road conditions.
