Commuters traveling through the Second Niger Bridge, connecting Anambra and Delta states, are facing nighttime challenges due to malfunctioning streetlights.
As gathered by Quest Times, the once well-lit 1.7km bridge has become a dark and unsettling stretch for motorists and travelers, raising concerns about safety, especially with the upcoming Yuletide season.
Recent observations by journalists on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings revealed that the streetlights, inactive since the bridge’s inauguration on May 23, 2023, have left the entire structure dimly lit and sparsely populated by vehicles.
This stark contrast to the promised well-illumination and security, including CCTV cameras, has sparked worry among drivers and residents.
Numerous sources, including drivers and residents interviewed on Thursday, voiced their concerns about the absence of security measures since the streetlights ceased to function.
Besides, the non-operational lights have created a sense of vulnerability, contrary to assurances from authorities about the bridge’s safety features.
Recall that the bridge, a vital national infrastructure inaugurated by the Federal Government, was expected to enhance traffic flow, improve road safety, and boost economic opportunities for local residents.
However, the current situation has led to reduced usage and heightened security fears among frequent commuters.
Justina Nkwo, a regular bridge user who spoke with newsmen, expressed her apprehension, stating, “When this bridge was inaugurated with the streetlight facilities functional, it was a sweet experience driving on it because there was nothing to worry about and there was no hiding place for evildoers. The bridge was well-illuminated on the first day it was inaugurated, but from the following day till now, it has not worked and it is a surprise to us.
“I am based in Benin but I travel almost on a weekly basis on this bridge. But since the streetlights have become non-functional, I am always scared of driving on this bridge, especially at night because of the level of insecurity on our highways these days. You don’t know where these hoodlums could hide to launch an attack and you know the area is surrounded by bushes.”
Also, Uzor Okonkwo, the Publicity Secretary of the South-East Drivers Union, suggested that vandalism might be a reason for the lights’ malfunction and appealed to the government to repair them promptly.
“Our members travel very often and we ply the bridge every day. What I observed was that it could be that the streetlights were vandalised, otherwise, nobody knows why it has not worked since it was inaugurated.”
“I want to appeal to the Federal Government to fix the damaged streetlights so that we don’t begin to experience security breaches on this road. And to also ensure its maximum use; as it is now, the bridge is not optimally used as a result of the non-functional lights and inadequate security.”
He also emphasized the need for increased security and the installation of CCTV cameras to ensure the bridge’s optimal use.
Moreover, community leader, Chief Ifeanyi Awunrum, blamed the situation on negligence and lack of maintenance by the Federal Government, emphasizing the difficulty in maintaining streetlights without a reliable power source.
In response to the concerns, a source at the Federal Controller of Works acknowledged the issue, citing electricity challenges for the non-functional lights, adding that efforts are underway to address the situation, with a recommendation to bring the matter before the Minister of Works.
Despite attempts to obtain comments from relevant officials, including Chief Press Secretary Orji Uchenna Orji, there has been no response at the time of filing this report.