The Anambra State Chairman of the Action People’s Party (APP), Hon. Chukwujiokem Okeke (Enyioha), has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Federal Government’s prompt intervention to reinforce the First Niger Bridge, describing the move as a critical step towards protecting lives, infrastructure and economic activities.
Okeke, in a statement, expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of the bridge, which he attributed to its age, inadequate maintenance over the years and alleged vandalism by scrap-metal scavengers, popularly known as “iron condemn,” who, according to him, have been removing metal components, bolts, nuts and other materials from the structure.
The APP chairman stressed the strategic importance of the First Niger Bridge, which links Onitsha in Anambra State with Asaba in Delta State, noting that the facility remains vital to transportation, trade and commercial activities across the region and beyond.
He also commended the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, and his project team for the intervention and particularly welcomed plans to install advanced monitoring devices at strategic points on the bridge following the rehabilitation.
According to him, the intervention underscores the practical benefits of democratic governance, noting that public infrastructure belongs to the people and should be protected irrespective of political affiliations.
“Democracy dividends are ultimately about the people. This bridge will not ask whether a user belongs to APC, APP, PDP or any other political party. It serves Nigerians who depend on it for their businesses, livelihoods, movement and daily activities,” Okeke said.
The APP chairman, who is also a certified / registered builder, urged security agencies to strengthen surveillance around the bridge once rehabilitation works are completed and the facility reopened to the public.
He called for sustained monitoring to prevent renewed vandalism and other criminal activities that could compromise the structural integrity of the bridge and endanger its users.
Okeke said the protection of critical infrastructure should remain a collective responsibility, urging relevant authorities and members of the public to promptly report suspicious activities around the facility.
