The Nigerian Senate has raised an urgent call for federal intervention on the Okija Spur – Ihembosi–Ukpor–Ebenator–Ezinifite Road, following the collapse of a key bridge and the deteriorating condition of the vital intra-regional corridor. The motion, sponsored by Senator Nwachukwu Emmanuel C. (Anambra South), highlights the road’s central role in facilitating commerce, agriculture, education, and healthcare across multiple communities in Anambra South Senatorial District.
According to Senator Nwachukwu, the old bridge along this route collapsed on March 5, 2025, completely halting movement and severely disrupting social and economic activities in the area. He noted that the incident has endangered lives and left thousands of residents, traders, farmers, students, and transporters stranded.
The Senate further observed that the new bridge over the Ulasi stream, which has been under construction for more than a decade, is still only about 70% complete. While its pillars are erected and deck components fabricated, the bridge remains non-operational, leaving the corridor effectively impassable.
Lawmakers expressed concern that the combination of the collapsed old bridge, the incomplete new bridge, and worsening road conditions particularly between Ukpor and Ebenator has increased safety risks, transportation costs, and hardship for the affected populations.
The Senate stressed that the immediate completion of the new bridge and emergency intervention on the collapsed old bridge are the most critical steps to restore movement along the corridor. They also emphasized the need for federal intervention to stabilize the road, restore access, support local livelihoods, and prevent further deterioration.
In its resolution, the Senate:
- Urged the Federal Ministry of Works and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to conduct an urgent engineering inspection of the collapsed bridge and all failed sections of the Okija Spur Road, and to initiate emergency measures to restore at least temporary and safe connectivity.
- Mandated the Senate Committee on Works to oversee all intervention activities on the Okija Spur Road, the collapsed old bridge, and completion works on the new bridge.
The Senate’s resolution underscores the critical importance of the Okija Spur corridor to the socio-economic wellbeing of Anambra South and calls for immediate federal action to restore this essential lifeline.
