‘Cowardly sabotage’ — Umahi condemns vandalism on Second Niger Bridge

David Umahi, minister of works, has condemned the vandalism on the Second Niger Bridge.

Umahi, in a statement by Orji Uchenna, his spokesperson, described the vandalism as “ruthless and cowardly sabotage” of the nation’s progress.

The incident, which involved the destruction of expansion joints crucial for the bridge’s structural integrity, has sparked outrage across the country.

The minister lamented how the vandals managed to achieve “their destructive mission” despite the presence of private security personnel deployed by the federal ministry of works.

”It is heartbreaking that the facilities are being vandalised by those who are meant to own the benefits it serves,” the statement reads.

“Umahi appreciates the public for the zeal of their concerns, particularly the patriotic young Nigerian who raised the desired alarm that trended widely in media platforms.

“He also assures the public that a more formidable security architecture is being activated to forestall further havoc on the facilities, while a technical team has been directed to inspect, evaluate, and reinstate the damaged parts of the superstructure.

“The minister called upon citizens residing near the bridge and authorities in the vicinity to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities using the dedicated hotlines.

“He enjoins all road users, residents and authorities within the 1.6km concrete box girder bridge of the 2nd Niger Bridge, the two secondary bridges of 21.7m each on Amakon village road, the cloverleaf interchange at Onitsha-Owerri road and the approach roads between Asaba, Delta State and Onitsha, Anambra State, to help keep watch against persons who vandalize, attempt to vandalize or tamper with the road infrastructure facilities on the project, and 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 minister stressed the need for collective responsibility, urging states and communities to protect federal infrastructure.

He reiterated that the “renewed hope administration” of President Bola Tinubu had pledged to uphold road infrastructure integrity and address sabotage.

Umahi said an investigation into the incident is ongoing, adding that the nation remains united in its resolve to combat vandalism and preserve progress and prosperity.

In 2023, the Anambra police command paraded five suspects for allegedly vandalising the Second Niger Bridge.