By Enitan Abdultawab
The Federal Government has ordered the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras on the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, following reports of vandalism and theft of vital components of the bridge.
Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, gave the directive during an inspection of the bridge on Thursday, after videos showing the vandalisation of parts of the structure circulated on social media.
Umahi expressed concern over the removal of bolts, expansion joints, iron bars and other critical components, warning that the damage could pose a serious threat to motorists using the bridge.
“We saw this vandalism on social media. We want to thank members of the public for bringing this to our attention,” the minister said.
He disclosed that some of the stolen bolts were used to hold sections of the bridge together, while an overhead steel bar had also been disconnected.
“The bolts holding this bridge have been vandalised and stolen, including the overhead steel bar, which has been disconnected, and that is even more dangerous,” he added.
According to Umahi, repairing some of the damaged sections would be challenging because the bridge is under tension. He, however, directed officials to commence immediate repairs and replace the missing components.
He also ordered the installation of CCTV cameras across the bridge to monitor activities and help security agencies apprehend vandals.
“The Federal Government cannot build bridges for the people, and vandals will continue to destroy them. Henceforth, the entire bridge will be fitted with cameras to ensure that these vandals are arrested,” Umahi said.
The minister further directed that the bridge’s solar streetlights be restored and that the CCTV system be connected to relevant officials and the police for real-time monitoring.
He instructed the Controller of Works in Anambra State, Engr. Timothy Emenike, to procure the required bolts and begin repairs immediately.
“Buy the bolt tomorrow and fix them, and let the welding take place on Saturday. As I will go to rest after this inspection, you will not rest until you fix these problems,” Umahi told the official.
He also announced that maintenance work would commence on the First Niger Bridge and that the bridge would be closed at night while the repairs are being carried out.
Addressing concerns over reports that the bridge was shaking, Umahi explained that movement was normal for bridges because of their bearings.
“People have said the bridge is shaking, but that is because of the bearing and every bridge shakes,” he said, adding that the structure carries significant dead load due to the asphalt.
Meanwhile, the minister inspected the Second Niger Bridge, where erosion around its base was identified as a potential threat to the structure and motorists.
Umahi directed the immediate arrest of anyone found excavating sand around the bridge, stressing that such activities could further compromise the infrastructure.
“I don’t want to know who they are. Once you find anyone excavating sand around this area, you must arrest them before you contact us. Don’t just report to us; arrest them before you contact us,” he ordered.
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