The Federal Ministry of Works has denied reports that newly installed demarcations on the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, are being removed, saying openings were deliberately created to allow emergency U-turns.
The Federal Controller of Works in Anambra, Engr. Timothy Emenike, made the clarification on Wednesday, saying the openings were provided to facilitate emergency operations by the FRSC, Fire Service and other traffic agencies ahead of the bridge’s expected reopening.
Emenike spoke against the backdrop of reports circulating on social media alleging that the ministry had started removing the demarcations following public criticism.
He described the reports as misleading, insisting that the demarcations remained intact.
“The alleged removal of the brick demarcation that was installed after the bridge rehabilitation is one of the lies some disgruntled elements are telling and posting with fake pictures on social media,” he said.
Emenike said the openings were specifically created to enable vehicles to make U-turns during emergencies.
“What we simply did was create U-turns for vehicles for emergency purposes and to allow the FRSC, Fire Service and other emergency and traffic agencies to operate in case of emergency response,” he said.
The controller said major rehabilitation works on the bridge, particularly tarring, had been completed.
He added that painting of the railings, which began last week, was still ongoing.
Emenike said the bridge could be reopened before the end of the week, provided there were no unforeseen circumstances.
“I am sure you have seen with your eyes that there was no removal of the demarcations,” he said.
Meanwhile, some pedestrians who spoke with journalists expressed satisfaction with the progress of the rehabilitation.
They said reopening the First Niger Bridge would ease the hardship faced by residents and motorists who rely on the bridge.
Traffic between Anambra and other parts of the country has been affected by the closure, with some motorists diverted to the Second Niger Bridge.
The ministry’s clarification is expected to calm concerns over the state of the bridge ahead of its proposed reopening.
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