In a move aimed at addressing critical infrastructure decay, the member representing Umuahia North in Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Barr Anderson Kelechi Akaliro, led the House Committee on Works to Mbato Ofeme for an on-the-spot assessment of the deteriorating state of the community’s bridge.
The lawmaker had earlier raised the issue before the State Assembly, urging the government to prioritize its urgent reconstruction.
The bridge, which is a vital link for Constituents and businesses in Mbato Ofeme, has been in a state of disrepair for years, posing a significant risk to commuters and impeding economic activities in the area.
Reports from locals indicate that the structure has suffered extensive damage due to years of neglect, heavy vehicular usage, and erosion caused by seasonal flooding.
During the visit, Hon. Akaliro and members of the House Committee on Works examined the bridge’s structural integrity and engaged with local leaders and residents who expressed concerns over the dangers posed by its current state.
The visibly dilapidated condition of the bridge, with cracks, exposed reinforcements, and weak support structures, has made it increasingly unsafe for both pedestrians and motorists.
Speaking to newsmen after the inspection, Hon. Akaliro emphasized the urgency of reconstructing the bridge to prevent potential accidents and loss of lives.
“This bridge is a crucial lifeline for the people of Mbato Ofeme, and its current state is a disaster waiting to happen.
I have brought this matter before the Assembly because our government must act swiftly to ensure the safety of our people and the smooth movement of goods and services. We cannot afford to wait until tragedy strikes,” he stated.
Community members present at the assessment visit also voiced their frustrations over the long-standing neglect of the bridge.
Engr Emmanuel Nwosu, a local, lamented that several appeals to past administrations had not yielded any results.
“This bridge connects us to other communities and markets, but it is now a death trap.
We appreciate Hon. Akaliro’s intervention and hope that the government will act fast this time,” Nwosu said.
The House Committee on Works, led by its chairman, assured the community that the Assembly would work closely with the executive arm of government to expedite the process of securing funds and commencing reconstruction.
“We have seen the condition firsthand, and there is no doubt that this is an emergency. We will engage the relevant ministries and agencies to ensure immediate action,” the chairman stated.
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