The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi has issued a stern condemnation of the vandalism of the Second Niger Bridge.
The Minister labelled such an act as a cowardly attack on the nation’s progress.
The incident, which involved the destruction of expansion joints crucial for the bridge’s structural integrity, has sparked outrage across the country.
Despite the presence of private security personnel deployed by the Federal Ministry of Works, the perpetrators managed to carry out their destructive mission.
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Expressing deep concern, Umahi highlighted the significance of the 2nd Niger Bridge in fostering socio-economic development and enhancing connectivity between states.
According to a statement on Tuesday by the Minister’s Special Adviser (Media), Orji Uchenna Orji, “the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi receives a report on the activities of vandals on the superstructure of the 2nd Niger Bridge, particularly the cruel and cowardly incident of destruction of the expansion joints used to absorb the thermal expansions of the second Niger Bridge.
“He expresses deep shock that reports of vandalism are still being recorded despite the presence of the private security outfit deployed by the Federal Ministry of Works to man the area.
“It is saddening that a human being with the right senses could destroy such a critical and strategic treasure that catalyses Nigeria’s socio-economic advancement”.
Completed under the PIDF projects, the bridge stands as a testament to Nigeria’s aspirations for infrastructure development and economic growth, the statement read.
“But it is heartbreaking that the facilities are being vandalised by those who are meant to own the benefits it serves,” the statement added.
Following the alarming incident, the Ministry has pledged to reinforce security measures to prevent further acts of vandalism.
A technical team has been tasked with assessing the damage and initiating repairs to restore the bridge to its operational state.
It further read, “Umahi appreciates the public for the zeal of their concerns, particularly the patriotic young Nigerian who raised the desired alarm that trended widely in media platforms.
“He also assures the public that a more formidable security architecture is being activated to forestall further havoc on the facilities, while a technical team has been directed to inspect, evaluate, and reinstate the damaged parts of the superstructure.”
However, the minister called upon citizens residing near the bridge and authorities in the vicinity to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities using the dedicated hotlines.
“He enjoins all road users, residents and authorities within the 1.6km concrete box girder bridge of the 2nd Niger Bridge, the two secondary bridges of 21.7m each on Amakon village road, the cloverleaf interchange at Onitsha-Owerri road and the approach roads between Asaba, Delta State and Onitsha, Anambra State, to help keep watch against persons who vandalize, attempt to vandalize or tamper with the road infrastructure facilities on the project, and arrest or report such persons to the nearest police station or call our hotlines – 08030986263 (SA Media)-08033389700 ( Controller of Works FMW Anambra State)- 08067736638 ( Controller of Works, FMW Delta State) or 08037056860 (Director Highways, Bridges and Design FMW),” it further read
Emphasising the importance of collective responsibility, Umahi urged states and communities to take ownership of and protect federal infrastructure within their jurisdictions.
In reaffirming the commitment of the Renewed Hope administration, led by President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the minister vowed to uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s road infrastructure and pursue justice for those responsible for the reprehensible act of sabotage.
As investigations continue, the nation remains united in its resolve to combat vandalism and preserve the foundations of progress and prosperity, the statement concluded.
