In a shocking act of vandalism, thieves have targeted the median walkway of the recently inaugurated Second Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State. The brazen culprits made off with the metal plate situated in the middle of the walkway, as well as the expansion joint.
The resident engineer overseeing the project, Oluwaseyi Martins, reported that this audacious incident took place late last week on Wednesday, July 5. While the theft itself does not pose an immediate threat to the bridge or its functionality, Martins expressed deep concern over the fact that such a significant national project, serving the people, could fall victim to vandalism merely two months after its public unveiling.
“This is a growing trend we are witnessing nationwide, and it is disheartening to see it unfold on the Second Niger Bridge,” stated Martins. “We have already reached out to all security agencies, including the military, emphasizing the importance of protecting this valuable national asset. We urge them to intensify their surveillance and security measures on the bridge.”
Martins remains hopeful that swift action will be taken to prevent further vandalism, safeguarding this vital national infrastructure.
The multi-billion naira Second Niger Bridge, spanning the River Niger and linking the Delta State capital of Asaba with the bustling city of Onitsha in the Southeast, was officially inaugurated via Zoom on May 23 of this year by former President Muhammadu Buhari. Subsequently, it was opened for public use.
To alleviate traffic congestion during the Yuletide season, the bridge had previously been partially opened on December 15 of the previous year, serving as a bypass for the heavy flow of traffic and commercial activities in Onitsha.