Summary:
Motorists in Agege face temporary road closures this Sunday as the “Run for Asiwaju 2027” mini-marathon takes center stage. LASTMA has released specific alternative routes to manage the gridlock, while organizers announce N2.3 million in cash prizes for participants, including a special appearance by Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.
Residents and motorists navigating the Agege axis of Lagos this Sunday are advised to plan their journeys with extra caution. The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a critical traffic advisory announcing temporary restrictions along several corridors to accommodate a high-profile mini-marathon.
The Route and Restrictions
The event is set to kick off at the Agege Local Government Area, creating a ripple effect on traffic flow through key neighborhoods. The race path will wind through Odo Eran, utilizing the Oba Ogunji Road to reach Oke-Koto, Oniwaya, and Dopemu.
Athletes will then proceed along Babajide Sanwo-Olu Road toward Agbotikuyo, connecting to the Old Ipaja Motor Road before crossing the finish line at the Orile-Agege Local Council Development Area (LCDA). Consequently, vehicular movement on these routes will be restricted for the duration of the race to ensure the safety of the runners.
Alternative Routes for Motorists
To minimize the impact on Sunday commuters, LASTMA has mapped out strategic diversions:
- From Wemco Road: Drivers are advised to detour through Ogba, head towards Excellent Hotel, and connect via College Road to access Iju Road.
- From Pen Cinema: Motorists should utilize the Moshalashi Alhaja Road to link up with Mobil Ashade and continue their journey from there.
More Than Just a Race
Tagged “Run for Asiwaju 2027,” the marathon is more than a sporting event; it is a political mobilization effort spearheaded by the Orile-Agege LCDA Chairman, Mr. Dipo Liadi. The initiative aims to galvanize grassroots support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the next general election while fostering unity and discovering local sporting talent.
The event promises inclusivity, featuring categories for youths, professionals, the elderly, and persons living with disabilities. It will also see participation from the Hausa and Igbo communities.
Prizes and VIP Participation
The stakes are high, with a total cash pot of N2.3 million up for grabs. Organizers have confirmed that the first 200 finishers will each receive a consolation prize of N10,000, while seven top professional athletes will take home N50,000 each.
Adding a layer of political weight to the event, the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has announced his participation in the VIP category. Obasa described the marathon as a tribute to the President’s “transformational leadership.”
LASTMA officials will be stationed at critical junctions to manage the flow of traffic, and the agency has appealed to the public for patience and cooperation during the event.