The minister of works, Engr. David Umahi, has embarked on the demolition of illegal structures Under Lagos Iddo bridge after the deadline of the eviction notice given to the occupants living beneath the bridge.
Umahi said years of fire damage and unauthorised activities beneath the bridge had threatened the stability of the bridge while informing the public to maintain safety even as he vowed to restore the structural integrity of the bridge.
He said this action is part of a larger effort to address safety concerns and improve the bridge’s structural integrity.
Umahi said, “Right now. We are at Iddo Bridge, and we came with, a number of, bridge experts because, this bridge was burned down by people that have been occupying under the bridge. They even made a block wall, and, all kinds of, goods are being sold under the bridge.
“They have constructed warehouses under the bridge, you know, shops, and living accommodations. And that’s why the bridge is being totally burned down. And then we gave the contract to, you know, to repair it. And, you know, the engineers said that this bridge is on the verge of collapse, and they must be totally demolished and then reconstructed. And, we directed the people occupying this who burnt the bridge in the first place.
“Iddo Bridge in particular here. You know, Carter Bridge was also burned down. We also have, the Independence Bridge was also affected. So we asked them to vacate before the collapse of the bridge occasioned by the activities under the bridge.
“So what they are selling is more important than the life of Lagosians. And it is very illegal for anybody to come under the bridge to occupy the place under the bridge. And we are telling them for the lives of Lagosians and their own lives.
“This bridge is at the verge of collapse, we need to evacuate them so that we can do thorough examination and then be able to save lives and the inconveniences of the people of this country. And they’re writing us and telling us that the matter is in court.”
