Special Report: Pedestrians abandon Panseke flyover, break barrier to cross road
Raymond Osho
The Panske area of Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital is one of the most busy areas in the metropolis. It is a notable centre for commercial activities and the location of
the acclaimed longest pedestrian bridge in sub-saharan Africa known as ‘Panseke fly over bridge.
The Panseke flyover
The Panseke fly over bridge was completed early 2019 and was constructed by the administration of former governor Ibikunle Amosun with a crash barrier (metallic fence) on the median that demarcates the roads to prevent pedestrians from crossing without the use of the bridge.
The pedestrian bridge became a topic of debate among residents when it was completed; while some residents frowned at the development, others complained about its length, stating that it had made it difficult for them to use the bridge.
Upon its completion, some residents argued that the bridge was not a necessary addition to the city’s infrastructure, and its location had caused inconvenience to motorists and pedestrians alike. They also argued that the bridge had disrupted the flow of traffic and made it more difficult for people to move around the city.
But despite the complaints in that year, some residents expressed their support for the bridge and lauded the government for the initiative, stating that it has helped to ease traffic congestion in the area. They argued that the bridge provides a safer means of crossing the busy road and has reduced the risk of accidents.
Pedestrians abandoned bridge
The bridge, which was meant to provide a safe crossing for pedestrians, is now being left unused.
The deserted flyover
Residents have taken matters into their own hands and have broken some parts of the crash barrier (metallic fence) used to demarcate the road, in order to avoid using the bridge.
The crash barrier was put in place to prevent pedestrians from crossing the road at dangerous points, but the residents have disregarded this safety measure.
Instead, they have created some passage through the fence, which they use to cross the road instead of the pedestrian bridge. This action is a clear violation of the law and puts their lives in danger.
The situation has become a cause for concern, as it poses a serious threat to the safety of pedestrians in the area.
The broken barrier
On several occasions, erring pedestrians who prefer crossing the road through the passage created through the metallic fence have narrowly escaped being hit by over speeding vehicles while some have been crushed many times.
A trader in the area said; “What made it easy for people to break through the fence is because the base of the crash barrier had been weakened by urine. People, especially those selling by the road side and area boys usually urinate on the base of the fence and with time, the fence became weaker and it was easy for the breaking.
Another trader said, “Only students who are always afraid of crossing the road go through the bridge. “
Possible risks of not using the flyover
Pedestrians who cross the road without using the flyover are at risk of being hit by vehicles. This risk is especially high on busy roads like Panseke where drivers may not be able to see pedestrians in time to avoid a collision.
Also, pedestrians who cross the road without using the flyover may have reduced visibility due to obstacles such as parked cars or vegetation. This makes it difficult for drivers to see them, increasing the risk of a collision.
Pedestrians who cross the road without using a flyover may have to contend with uneven surfaces such as potholes, which can cause them to trip and fall. This risk is especially high for older adults and people with mobility impairments.
Residents blame Ogun government’s negligence
Residents of Abeokuta blamed defaulters’ actions on the negligence of the current administration, saying that such development should not be mentioned in state if the government was concerned about continuity.
They argued that no citizens could try such under the previous administration, adding that the current administration is aware that the people have broken part of the metallic fence but never bother to do something about it .
They also blamed the sitting government for being too slack, hence people take law into their hands and go free.
Abidemi James said “Are you to blame the people or our government? The truth is that we don’t have a government in Ogun state. You cannot try this nonsense in Lagos state and go scot free.”
Another resident, Lukmon Isiaka “I’m so disappointed that the government has not fixed the wall since the openings have been created and pedestrians are gradually neglecting the bridge.
He added “I noticed that people are not law abiding in Ogun state and this is so because the government themselves are not serious.
Oluwakemi Samuel stressed that the current administration is too weak. She observed that even vehicle users don’t observe traffic rules when driving.
For instance, she said, taxi drivers and motorcycle riders usually avoid the traffic light. This, Samuel said, has caused accidents at different locations.
