Commuters Call for Prompt Repairs on Second Niger Bridge Amid Safety Concerns

Dimmed Lights: Concerns Rise Over Non-functional Streetlights on Second Niger Bridge

Commuters in Anambra and Delta states are expressing apprehension as the non-functional streetlights along the Second Niger Bridge pose a potential safety hazard, especially with the approaching Yuletide season. Our correspondent observed the dark and scarcely lit 1.7km bridge from Asaba, Delta State, to Idemili, Anambra State, with streetlights remaining inactive since the bridge’s inauguration on May 23, 2023.

Despite promises of proper illumination and security, sources, including drivers and residents, disclosed the lights last operated on the inauguration night, leaving the area vulnerable. Motorists, fearing attacks from nocturnal criminals, voiced concerns about poor visibility, prompting some to avoid the bridge at night and resort to using the old Niger Bridge.

Reports of attacks on drivers, particularly the Greater Tippers Association of Anambra, highlight the risks faced due to the darkened bridge. Calls from individuals like Ebuka Unaekwe, the association’s chairman, emphasize the urgent need for repairs to prevent further security breaches.

Justina Nkwo, a motorist, shared her unease, highlighting the contrast from the well-illuminated bridge on inauguration day to the current state of darkness. Uzor Okonkwo, Publicity Secretary of the South-East Drivers Union, suggested possible vandalism of the lights and urged the Federal Government to address the situation, emphasizing the need for enhanced security, CCTV cameras, and maintenance.

Chief Ifeanyi Awunrum, a community leader, attributed the issue to negligence and lack of maintenance by the Federal Government, raising concerns about the difficulty of maintaining the streetlights without proper infrastructure.

While a source from the Federal Controller of Works cited electricity challenges as a reason for non-functionality, the Deputy Director of the Federal Ministry of Works, Ezeorah Clement, and Chief Press Secretary to the Minister of Works, Orji Uchenna Orji, were unavailable for comments at the time of filing this report. The situation calls for immediate attention to ensure the safety and optimal use of this vital national inf rastructure.