REPORTER: OBY ARINZE
The Federal Controller of Works in Anambra State, Mr Timothy Emenike, says that the openings recently observed in the newly installed demarcations on the First Niger Bridge are deliberate measures to provide emergency access and facilitate traffic management, and not an indication that the structures are being dismantled.
Mr Emenike gave the clarification while speaking with Radio Nigeria Correspondent, in Onitsha.
He said the demarcations remain intact, explaining that only selected sections were opened to create emergency U-turn points for motorists and allow the Federal Road Safety Corps, Fire Service and other emergency agencies to respond promptly to incidents on the bridge.
The Federal Works Controller described reports suggesting that the demarcations were being removed as misleading, accusing some individuals of circulating fake photographs and unverified information on social media to discredit the Ministry.
Mr Emenike urged members of the public to visit the bridge and ascertain the situation for themselves, stressing that the openings were specifically created for emergency operations and traffic management.
He disclosed that the major rehabilitation works, including the tarring of the bridge, had been completed, while painting of the facility railings, which commenced last week, was still ongoing.
Mr Emenike expressed optimism that the bridge could be reopened before the end of the week, subject to the completion of the remaining works and absence of unforeseen delays.
A visit to the bridge showed workers continuing with the painting of the railings, while bolts were being fixed in spaces created between the demarcations for the installation of electric poles and Installation of solar street lights .
Meanwhile, some pedestrians who spoke with Radio Nigeria expressed satisfaction with the progress of work and appealed to the authorities to reopen the bridge as soon as possible.
They said reopening the First Niger Bridge would provide significant relief to residents and motorists who have experienced increased travel difficulties since traffic was diverted to the Second Niger Bridge.
