Nigeria: Umahi Frowns At Vandalism of Second Niger Bridge

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has frowned at the recent vandalism of structures on the second Niger bridge.

A statement by Orji Uchenna Orji, a lawyer and special adviser (media) to the minister, on Tuesday said the destruction of the joints used to absorb the thermal expansion of the bridge was a 'cowardly' act.

"The minister condemns this ruthless destruction in strongest terms. It is a deliberate act of sabotage on a key national infrastructure that has immense socio-economic benefits to the contiguous states, and indeed, the entire country. It is saddening that a human being with the right senses could destroy such a critical and strategic treasure that catalyses Nigeria's socio-economic advancement," he said.

The minister assured the public that a more formidable security architecture was being activated to forestall further havoc on the facilities, while a technical team had been directed to inspect, evaluate and reinstate the damaged parts of the superstructure.

"The Federal Ministry of Works shall promptly and handsomely reward any person or group who nabs or gives useful information on the identities of perpetrators of the vandalism of facilities on the bridge or any of our road infrastructures nationwide. We shall ensure that such perpetrators face the full wrath of the law," he added.

AllAfrica publishes around 600 reports a day from more than 100 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.