The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD) has taken a proactive safety measure by barricading the slip road that links Goodluck Jonathan Expressway with Ring Road II at the Galadimawa Interchange in Abuja.
Speaking during the operation on Tuesday, the Acting Director-General of FEMD, Mr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, explained that the decision was prompted by the increasing threat of flooding on the route, especially during the rainy season. He stated that the water level along the slip road was already beginning to rise, which poses a significant hazard to motorists.
“This road has a history of flooding whenever the rains come,” Mohammed noted. “Currently, water is already beginning to accumulate, and we cannot take chances when lives and properties are at stake.”
The director recalled a tragic incident in 2019 when the same slip road was submerged, leading to the death of Mr. Tony Okecheme, who was then the Director of Finance at the FCT High Court. He emphasized that the department had learned from that unfortunate incident and was determined to prevent any recurrence.
“In light of that loss and current developments, we decided to shut the road to all vehicular traffic immediately,” he said. “It is part of our commitment to prioritizing the safety of FCT residents and road users.”
Mr. Mohammed also appealed to the public for patience and understanding over the temporary inconvenience. He urged motorists to make use of alternative routes while the slip road remains closed.
In a broader advisory, he cautioned residents against attempting to drive through flooded sections of roads. Instead, he advised them to wait until the water recedes or seek safer alternatives.
Furthermore, he reminded the public of the availability of the toll-free emergency number, 112, which should be dialed in any emergency situation for prompt response.
“Our goal is to save lives, not just respond to disasters,” Mohammed concluded.