The weekend’s excruciating traffic gridlock that brought untold travel disruption to holiday movements has been resolved.
Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Works announced the full restoration of normal traffic flow on the vital Abuja-Lokoja Expressway on Sunday night after a near 12 hours non-movement by travelers who were stuck to the terrible traffic.
The announcement which was contained in a statement by Mohammed A. Ahmed, Director of Press and Public Relations for the ministry on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Works Sen. Engr. David Umahi, comes just in time for the peak festive season, easing the burdens on thousands of motorists caught in the chaos.
The incident unfolded over the weekend when a reported confrontation between truck drivers and military personnel escalated dramatically.
According to ministry officials, the standoff began with the smashing of a truck’s windscreen, prompting furious drivers to blockade a section of the highway. This impromptu protest created a massive gridlock, stranding travelers en route to Lokoja and beyond. With the Christmas holidays in full swing, the blockage amplified frustrations, turning what should have been joyful journeys into hours-long ordeals of hardship and delay.
Acting decisively, Minister Umahi ordered the immediate utilization of newly completed portions of the expressway and mobilized resources to clear the impasse. By Sunday, December 21, 2025, teams from the ministry’s Field Headquarters, working alongside the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other security agencies, had successfully decongested the area. Engr. Patiko Isah, the Federal Controller of Works in Kogi State, confirmed the breakthrough: “The free flow of traffic was restored at about 2:00 a.m. today,” marking a rapid turnaround that prevented further escalation.
In his statement, Umahi urged road users to exercise patience and caution amid the holiday rush. “Motorists should remain patient, orderly, and cautious, particularly during this peak holiday travel period,” he emphasized, highlighting the government’s dedication to safer roads.
The minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to “ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable road transportation nationwide,” a pledge that resonates amid ongoing infrastructure challenges.
As Nigerians gear up for celebrations, Umahi extended warm wishes for a “peaceful, safe, and joyous” festive period. With traffic now flowing smoothly, the expressway stands ready to support the influx of holiday travelers, a timely relief in what could have been a prolonged crisis.
