There is heavy traffic gridlock on roads leading to the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, venue of the book launch of former military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida.

Many dignitaries and guests are struggling to gain access to the venue.

The book titled: “A Journey of Service” is the long-awaited autobiography of the former military ruler.

It is billed for public presentation by 11 am under the chairmanship of former President Olusegun Obasanjo with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the Special Guest of Honour.

As early as 8 am security presence within and around the hotel was heightened with armed Policemen, plain-clothed detectives and security personnel directing human and vehicular traffic.

From the Unity Fountain to Aguyi Ironsi Street and Adetokunbo Ademola Cresent, most invitees abandoned their cars and walked down to the Congress Hall, the venue of the book launch.

Security operatives are having herculean task in controlling traffic while all invited guests are subjected to thorough search.

Those without the invitation cards were politely turned back.

Sources within the Congress Hall said most guests were seated as early as 9 am, two hours ahead of the programme proper. (The Nation)