Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, are increasingly concerned about the dangerous practice of crossing highways directly instead of using pedestrian bridges, a habit that has led to numerous fatalities in recent months.
Investigations reveal that pedestrian bridges in locations such as Gwarinpa, Gwagwalada, Lugbe, Berger, NICON junction, Wuye, Nyanya, and Mararaba (in neighboring Nasarawa State) are frequently abandoned. Instead, these structures have become makeshift markets, display areas for goods, and shelters for homeless individuals.
In April, a young man was fatally struck while attempting to cross the expressway at Berger Junction on his way to work. Eyewitnesses reported that the victim's office was located across the road, and with no pedestrian bridge available at that specific location, he attempted to cross the highway directly.
Similarly, in early May, another young man was killed by a speeding vehicle at Galadimawa Junction along Kubwa Expressway after choosing to cross the highway rather than use the available pedestrian bridge. The driver, who narrowly escaped being mobbed, claimed he did not see the pedestrian until it was too late, as he did not expect anyone to cross the expressway where a bridge was provided.
Despite concrete barricades dividing many of Abuja's expressways, residents routinely jump over these barriers, often losing control in the middle of the road and forcing drivers to brake suddenly.
The Uche Collins Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organisation, has initiated efforts to partner with stakeholders to increase awareness about the importance of using pedestrian bridges. The foundation noted that many bridges in the capital are viewed as "monumental decorations" rather than vital safety infrastructure.
"As an NGO, we feel the need to increase sensitisation and awareness of this public facility, hence reaching out to good spirited individuals and organisations to partner with us in driving this message," the Foundation stated.
Residents interviewed by Daily Post acknowledged the risks but cited various reasons for avoiding pedestrian bridges. Peter Adebayo, a Nyanya resident, described crossing highways directly as an "open-source to death" but noted that many people do so when pressed for time.
"Highway is a motor lane at high speed and it is not safe to cross the highway on foot, those crossing because they are in a hurry are endangering their lives," Adebayo explained.
Some residents also criticized the government for poor planning in the placement of pedestrian bridges. Ola Abiola, a resident of Kugbo, argued that "Most pedestrian bridges in Abuja are not built at the right place, for instance in Wuye. Government needs to ensure proper supervision of projects that concern human life."
Ephrain Ager, observed crossing the Musa Yar-Adua Expressway on Airport Road, admitted it was risky but explained that many bridges are situated approximately one kilometer from bus stops, making them inconvenient for commuters.
However, another resident, Ngozi Nnanna, emphasized that safety should always be the priority regardless of distance. "I am taking the pedestrian bridge because it is safer. Of what use are the bridges constructed by the government if they are ignored by pedestrians?" she questioned.
Ikechukwu Ubani, a taxi driver, observed that pedestrians often underestimate vehicle speeds on expressways. "They usually think moving vehicles are far but not knowing that the distance can be covered in a few seconds and they run into the road and they get hit," he said.
Attempts to reach the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) for comments on measures to enforce the use of pedestrian bridges and address residents' concerns were unsuccessful.
