The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has condemned the vandalism of the Second Niger Bridge, describing it as a “cruel” and “ruthless destruction” of a critical national infrastructure. Despite the presence of a private security outfit deployed by the Federal Ministry of Works, vandals have been damaging the expansion joints on the bridge, which are essential for absorbing thermal expansion.
Umahi expressed sadness and shock that individuals could destroy such a strategic treasure, which has immense economic benefits to the surrounding states and the entire nation. He promised to deploy a more robust security architecture to prevent further damage and directed a technical team to inspect and repair the damaged parts of the superstructure.
The minister also announced a reward for anyone providing useful information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the vandals, promising that they would face the full wrath of the law. This incident has raised concerns about the security and maintenance of critical infrastructure in Nigeria.
