The Federal Government has ordered the immediate installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras on the First Niger Bridge in Onitsha, Anambra State, following the vandalisation and theft of critical components of the bridge.

The Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, issued the directive on Thursday during an inspection of the bridge after videos showing the vandalisation of parts of the structure surfaced on social media.

Umahi expressed concern over the removal of bolts, expansion joints, iron bars and other vital components, warning that the damage could endanger motorists and undermine the safety of the bridge.

“We saw this vandalism on social media. We want to thank members of the public for bringing this to our attention,” the minister said.

He disclosed that some of the stolen bolts were critical to holding sections of the bridge together, while an overhead steel bar had also been disconnected.

“The bolts holding this bridge have been vandalised and stolen, including the overhead steel bar, which has been disconnected, and that is even more dangerous,” he added.

According to Umahi, repairing some of the damaged portions could be technically challenging because the bridge is under tension. He, however, directed officials to begin immediate repairs and replace the missing components.

The minister also ordered that CCTV cameras be installed across the entire bridge to enhance surveillance and enable security agencies to identify and apprehend vandals.

“The Federal Government cannot build bridges for the people, and vandals will continue to destroy them. Henceforth, the entire bridge will be fitted with cameras to ensure that these vandals are arrested,” Umahi said.

He further directed officials to restore the bridge’s solar streetlights and connect the CCTV system to relevant government authorities and the police for real-time monitoring.

Umahi instructed the Anambra State Controller of Works, Engr. Timothy Emenike, to procure the required bolts and commence repairs immediately.

“Buy the bolt tomorrow and fix them, and let the welding take place on Saturday. As I will go to rest after this inspection, you will not rest until you fix these problems,” he told the official.

The minister also announced that maintenance work would commence on the First Niger Bridge, with the bridge expected to be closed at night during the repair exercise.

Addressing reports that the bridge was shaking, Umahi explained that some movement was normal because of the bridge’s bearings.

“People have said the bridge is shaking, but that is because of the bearing and every bridge shakes,” he said, noting that the structure also carries significant dead load due to the asphalt.

Meanwhile, Umahi inspected the Second Niger Bridge, where he identified erosion and sand excavation around the bridge’s base as potential threats to the structure and motorists.

He ordered the immediate arrest of anyone found excavating sand around the bridge, warning that such activities could further compromise the infrastructure.

“I don’t want to know who they are. Once you find anyone excavating sand around this area, you must arrest them before you contact us. Don’t just report to us; arrest them before you contact us,” the minister ordered.