FG Orders CCTV Installation on Niger Bridge to Combat Vandalism

The Federal Government has mandated the immediate installation of CCTV cameras and solar-powered streetlights on the First Niger Bridge to combat the escalating problem of vandalism and theft.

Minister of Works Dave Umahi issued the directive during an on-the-spot inspection of both the First and Second Niger bridges. He expressed serious concern over the vandalism of essential components, including bolts and expansion joints, that hold the First Niger Bridge together. Umahi described the damage as dangerous, noting that stolen bolts have compromised the bridge's integrity.

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We saw this vandalism on the social media. We want to thank members of the public for bringing this to our attention.

"We saw this vandalism on the social media. We want to thank members of the public for bringing this to our attention," Umahi stated. He elaborated on the damage, explaining, "The bolts holding this bridge have been vandalized and stolen, including the overhead steel bar which has been disconnected, and that is even more dangerous." He also addressed public concerns about the bridge shaking, clarifying that it is due to the bearings and that some movement is normal for bridges, especially under the current load.

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The bolts holding this bridge have been vandalized and stolen, including the overhead steel bar which has been disconnected, and that is even more dangerous.

The Minister directed the Controller of Works in Anambra State, Timothy Emenike, to immediately procure and replace the affected bolts, with welding work to follow. The new CCTV system is designed to transmit live footage directly to relevant officials and the police, enabling security agencies to identify and apprehend suspected vandals. Maintenance work will also commence on the bridge, which will be closed at night during the exercise.

During his visit to the Second Niger Bridge, Umahi inspected an area threatened by erosion and ordered the immediate arrest of anyone found excavating sand nearby. He warned against such activities, stating that the Federal Government would not tolerate infrastructure being undermined by vandals and illegal sand miners. "I don’t want to know who they are. Once you find anyone involved in the excavation of sand around this area, you must arrest them," he declared.

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I don’t want to know who they are. Once you find anyone involved in the excavation of sand around this area, you must arrest them.