The Federal Government is set to intensify measures against vandalism and the activities of scrap dealers in Anambra and Delta States following the removal of critical components of the First Niger Bridge.
The Minister of Works, Engineer David Umahi, has urged the Governors of Anambra and Delta States to closely monitor scrap markets in their respective states, warning that activities in the scrap trade could facilitate the theft and destruction of public infrastructure.
Umahi spoke during an inspection of the ongoing rehabilitation of the First Niger Bridge at the Onitsha end of the bridgehead, where he expressed concern over the huge sums being spent by the government to replace bolts, nuts and expansion-joint components removed by vandals.
The Minister recalled that, while serving as Governor of Ebonyi State, he banned scrap-dealing activities because of their alleged links to the vandalism of public infrastructure.
He therefore urged the two states to take stronger measures to prevent a recurrence of the vandalism witnessed on the bridge.
Umahi also called on residents to report suspected vandals to security agencies, stressing that the protection of critical infrastructure requires the collective efforts of government and citizens.
Beyond monitoring scrap markets, the Minister directed the strengthening of security around the bridge, including the complete installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras and their integration with the surveillance system at the Second Niger Bridge.
He also ordered the installation of additional solar-powered streetlights around the bridge.
Umahi further reiterated the Federal Government’s ban on illegal sand dredging around bridges, warning that such activities could undermine the structural integrity of critical infrastructure.
The Minister said the vandalised bolts had been replaced and secured, while the specialised expansion joints had been manufactured, flown into the country and installed.
He assured motorists that the First Niger Bridge would reopen next week following the completion of the outstanding rehabilitation works.
