The Federal Government has issued a two-week ultimatum to road users along the Lagos section of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to address rising safety and security violations, warning that the affected section could be temporarily closed if compliance does not improve.

Authorities said motorists have continued to disregard the 30km/h speed limit imposed within construction zones, with some reportedly travelling at speeds of up to 120km/h, posing serious risks to workers and other road users.

The government also cited other violations, including illegal parking and U-turns, the operation of commercial motorcycles and tricycles, roadside hawking, vandalism and theft of road infrastructure.

More than 100 commercial motorcycle riders, popularly known as okada riders, were reportedly arrested within one week, while approximately 5km of clear-view fencing and manhole covers along an estimated 18km stretch of the highway have reportedly been removed or stolen.

The government said the measures are aimed at protecting lives, safeguarding critical infrastructure and ensuring the orderly development of the major coastal road project.

Road users have now been given two weeks to improve compliance, failing which authorities warned that the affected section could be shut temporarily.

The development has renewed debate over whether the government should close the section to enforce safety standards or intensify enforcement measures while keeping the road open to traffic.