Osun State Bans Heavy-Duty Trucks from Olaiya Bridge for Safety Concerns

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has declared the Olaiya Bridge in Osogbo off-limits to heavy-duty trucks, citing safety concerns arising from ongoing technical studies on the bridge's condition. The directive empowers the state Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to implement necessary actions to protect the bridge and public safety.

In a statement released by the governor's spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, on Monday, the decision was made during a security council meeting held in Osogbo. Governor Adeleke emphasized the need to prevent potential structural collapse and other incidents resulting from the continuous passage of heavy trucks.

As part of the preventative measures, the governor directed the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to construct barriers on the bridge, allowing only cars and buses to use the road. He also instructed the ministry to issue a travel advisory, including radio announcements, to raise public awareness and inform the transportation sector about the new restrictions.

The safety concerns have been fueled by the increasing number of heavy-duty trucks using the Gbongan-Ibadan Road, following the deteriorating condition of the Oyo-Ogbomoso-Ilorin expressway. The trucks' use of the Olaiya flyover has raised fears among residents that the bridge may not be able to support their weight.