The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has ordered the immediate arrest of the contractor handling the Summit Junction-Head Bridge section of the Benin-Onitsha Expressway over alleged failure to meet contractual obligations despite receiving payment.
Umahi gave the directive during an inspection of federal road projects in Onitsha, Anambra State.
The Minister also inspected the 17.5-kilometre access road to the Second Niger Bridge and commended the contractor for its work, assuring the firm of continued government funding to ensure completion of the project.
At the Old Niger Bridge, Umahi expressed concern over the vandalisation of some bridge components, including bolts, nuts and an overhead steel member.
He directed the immediate replacement and welding of the damaged components as part of measures to safeguard the bridge and improve its condition.
The Minister announced that the bridge would also undergo asphalt resurfacing, with the work scheduled to take place at night. He said the bridge would be temporarily closed during the rehabilitation to allow the contractors to work safely and efficiently.
Umahi further disclosed plans to install CCTV cameras and solar-powered lighting on the bridge to improve security and deter further vandalism.
Addressing concerns over movement observed on the bridge, the Minister explained that the movement was associated with the bridge’s bearings and did not necessarily indicate structural failure.
He assured road users that the government was taking steps to preserve the integrity and functionality of the bridge.
On the Benin-Agbor road, Umahi said the Federal Government was exploring options to rehabilitate failed sections of the highway.
He alleged that previous efforts to repair the road had been frustrated by concessionaires and stressed the need for a sustainable solution to the persistent deterioration of the strategic route.
The Minister said the Federal Government remained committed to restoring critical road infrastructure and improving transportation links across the country.
