ONITSHA — Residents and commuters have raised alarm over the continued vandalism of the Old Niger Bridge linking Onitsha in Anambra State and Asaba in Delta State, with suspected scavengers stealing iron fittings, nuts, and bolts from the vital infrastructure, increasing fears of a potential collapse .
Viral videos have shown the extent of the damage, with several railings and bolts allegedly removed by vandals . The theft has sparked outrage, as the bridge, built in 1965, serves as a critical link between Nigeria’s Southeast and Southwest, and many have questioned the apparent lack of urgency by security agencies .
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has previously condemned such acts as sabotage and directed a technical team to assess and repair damaged parts of the bridge . He also called on residents and motorists to assist authorities by reporting suspicious activities, promising rewards for useful information . Police in Anambra stated that an investigation had been launched, but residents complain that the patrols remain insufficient .
CDA News Nigeria gathered that while the federal government has invested heavily in the new Second Niger Bridge, the old bridge remains in use and requires urgent maintenance. The Ministry of Works has also admitted that the 125-kilometre Benin–Onitsha corridor is under a 25-year concession, which limits direct federal intervention . However, calls for immediate action to secure the bridge’s structural integrity have intensified.
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