Umahi Directs Immediate Closure of Eko Bridge Waterway Following Dredging Damage

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has ordered the immediate closure of the waterway between Eko Bridge and Carter Bridge in Lagos due to significant damage caused by dredging activities. Umahi made the directive following an inspection of various bridges in the state, expressing serious concerns over the impact of the dredging on the structural integrity of the bridges.

During the inspection, Umahi revealed that the dredging vessel had collided with a pier cap on the Eko Bridge, causing the pier to collapse and sink. He confirmed that the driver or owner of the dredger had been apprehended and assured that the Federal Government would take swift action given the extent of the damage.

Umahi also raised alarms about ongoing illegal dredging activities near Third Mainland Bridge, despite a Federal Executive Council ban imposed four months ago that prohibited dredging within a 10-kilometre radius of all bridges across Nigeria. He expressed shock that such activities were still taking place and emphasized the dangers they pose to the stability of critical infrastructure.

The minister further appealed to the public, urging them to refrain from parking or loading on bridges, stressing the need to preserve both lives and national road infrastructure. He underscored the importance of taking preventive measures to avoid further accidents and safeguard the lives of Nigerians.