Movement along the popular Ore road was brought to a halt after police officers reportedly stopped travellers from proceeding due to information that bandits were operating ahead.
The development led to a long standstill, triggering frustration and anxiety among commuters caught in the growing gridlock.
“This country that we are, even the policemen fear bandits”
In a video circulated online, a distressed traveller narrated the tense situation, expressing disbelief that even security operatives escorting the convoy were unwilling to advance.
“This country that we are, even the policemen fear bandits,” he lamented. “Now we are on Ore road. They said bandits are on the road so we cannot pass. See hold-up. See as we all pack for Ore road and the policemen with us.”
According to him, officers warned the drivers to stay put until they received further updates on the movement of the suspected armed group.
The unexpected halt left hundreds stranded under the scorching sun, with many stepping out of their vehicles to assess the situation.
The video also captured several vehicles lined up, with no movement in sight as the convoy waited for clearance.
The growing gridlock added to the rising tension on the popular Lagos–Benin–Ore axis, a route long considered high-risk in recent years due to repeated incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, and violent attacks on motorists.
Social media reactions
Reacting online, many Nigerians expressed worry over the state of security on major highways.
@Emmalex_8 advised travellers to suspend unnecessary trips during this period. “Please, if it’s not a must or very important, travelling by road this period is not advisable oooooo,” the user wrote, noting the increasing frequency of security warnings.
Insecurity on highways, particularly in the South-West and North-Central regions, has been a recurring concern, with multiple incidents of abduction for ransom reported in recent months.
Road users say the fear of falling into an ambush has made travel increasingly unpredictable, especially during festive seasons when highways are busier and criminal activities tend to spike.