Vandalism: FG to install streetlights, CCTV on Niger Bridge

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By Madu Obi

The Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi has ordered immediate installation of Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras on the First Niger Bridge linking Anambra and Delta states, to stop the vandalism going on there.

The Minister gave the directive while inspecting areas where unknown persons removed many bolts and other components holding the bridge.

Wondering why some people have formed the habit of destroying public infrastructure put in place by government, Umahi directed the Federal Controllers of Works for Anambra and Delta states to find a way of securing the bridge.

Umahi said: "We saw this vandalisation on social media and we thank members of the public for bringing this to our attention.

"The bolts holding this bridge have been vandalized and stolen, including the overhead steel bar which has been disconnected, thereby making the bridge more dangerous.

"This criminal act will be very difficult to re-fix because the bridge is under tension, and as you drag it, it will make the members to yield."

He also directed the Controller of works to replay the stolen bolts, adding that he would continuously monitor the work until it is properly fixed.

Umahi explained that total maintenance of the over 60 years bridge would soon begin, adding that it might require total closure at night for the work to be effective.

At the 2nd Niger Bridge where erosion is eating into parts of the access roads, the Minister directed the contractor on the best way to combat it.