Dr. Peter Mbah, the governor of Enugu State, has called for a new road maintenance model to ensure that Nigerian roads are in better shape and are more durable, lamenting the fact that the current model has failed miserably.
On the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, between the NNPC Mega Station and the New Artisan flyover, Mbah made the call when he was there.
Responding to questions from reporters after seeing the disaster firsthand, Mbah praised God that no lives were lost despite its severity and urged the federal government to consider giving state governments control of all federal roads in each state so they can maintain them properly in cooperation with the private sector.
The more important question, in my opinion, is whether or not the federal government’s current approach to road maintenance is effective.
“Today, we are present to observe a catastrophe that has just taken place. Although we are fortunate that nobody was hurt, this could have been avoided totally.
“As a result of this disaster, individuals can no longer go along this road. This demonstrates unequivocally that our federal road maintenance paradigm is flawed.
“The fall of the bridge wasn’t an accident. If we had routine maintenance, these threats might have been discovered.
Finding a means to get the states access to these routes may be the best course of action. There must be a discussion about funding mechanisms and the states must assume control of the roads under their jurisdiction.
On Monday, the bridge gave way, trapping people inside.
The government has advised commuters to use Nza Street through New Haven or travel Ogui Road and Abakaliki Road to their various destinations while the authorities come up with measures for immediate repair on the failed section of the bridge, according to a statement signed by the Enugu State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Gerald Otiji.
