Thank you to everyone who responded to my earlier post on the Carter Bridge reconstruction and drew my attention to the various announcements and media reports that preceded the commencement of demolition.
For the avoidance of doubt, my intention was never to suggest that the Federal Government did not announce the project. The reconstruction had indeed been reported publicly before demolition commenced.
My concern is about something broader: the depth, reach and continuity of public engagement required for a landmark infrastructure project of this magnitude.
A project involving the demolition and reconstruction of such an important gateway into Lagos Island will inevitably affect traffic movement, businesses, commuters and the daily life of the city for a considerable period. Public communication should therefore extend beyond newspaper reports and official announcements.
There should be sustained sensitisation across multiple channels accessible to the ordinary citizen, clearly explaining the project, its duration, construction phases, traffic diversions, alternative routes and likely disruptions.
In a democracy, major public infrastructure should not merely be announced; citizens should be continuously carried along.
That was the point I sought to make, and I am grateful to those whose comments have helped me clarify it.
Gbenga Onabanjo
Founder, GO-FORTE FOUNDATION
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