The Federal Ministry of Works has repaired the vandalised railings and expansion joints on the Second Niger Bridge and is implementing stringent security measures to prevent further damage.
News About Nigeria reports that this action follows the circulation of a social media video last Monday, which showed the extent of the vandalism.
Uchenna Orji, Special Adviser on Media to the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, confirmed ton Monday that the repairs were completed on Sunday.
“Yes, the vandalised sections of the bridge have been fixed,” Orji stated.
The viral video, shared by popular social media user Lord Zeus, showed uprooted rail fittings and expansion joints, warning drivers to exercise caution, especially at night.
This prompted a swift response from the ministry, which has been working closely with the police and other security agencies to enhance security around the bridge.
Minister Dave Umahi expressed deep concern over the continued vandalism despite the presence of a private security outfit.
He announced that bounties have been placed on the perpetrators and their collaborators.
The ministry is urging road users, residents, and authorities around the 1.6km bridge, including the secondary bridges and approach roads between Asaba, Delta State, and Onitsha, Anambra State, to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
The ministry provided hotlines for reporting such incidents and promised handsome rewards for useful information leading to the arrest of vandals.
“They are to 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).
“The Federal Ministry of Works shall promptly and handsomely reward any person or group who nabs or gives useful information on the identity of perpetrators of vandalism of facilities on the Second Niger Bridge or on any of our road infrastructure facilities nationwide, and shall not only ensure that such perpetrators face the full wrath of the law but shall also wield the long arms of the law on those who buy or patronise such stolen facilities.”
Also, the Delta State police command dispatched a team to secure the vandalised section of the bridge.
Delta State Commissioner of Police, Abaniwonda Olufemi, stated that the deployment was aimed at safeguarding the bridge and deterring further vandalism.
