The House of Representatives yesterday passed a resolution calling on the federal government to award the contract for the construction of the second Niger bridge in Onisha, Anambra state. Similarly, the lawmakers urged the government to immediately begin the reinforcement, repairs and rehabilitation of River Niger Bridge after adopting a motion sponsored by Rep. Ezenwa Francis Onyewuchi on the threat of collapse of the Niger bridge.

Leading the debate on the motion, Rep. Onyewuchi noted that the River Niger bridge, which links the south-east, south-south, south-west and some northern states, "is on the verge of collapse due to its age, overuse and lack of maintenance."

He said there was evidence of corrosion and cracks to the structural members of the bridge which have been stretched beyond and capacity and "at present, the bridge can no longer bear the constant weight of stationery vehicles, trailer or any other heavy duty truck accessing it, as heavy cranky noise and vibration is experienced when they do so."

The green chamber unanimously adopted the motion.