The Office of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives has reached out to the Ecological Office regarding significant technical deficiencies identified in the newly constructed Nkpa bridge in Bende Federal Constituency, Abia State.
Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, who represents the area, successfully championed the project after highlighting the urgent need for improved infrastructure in a landmark motion that gained national attention.
Recently, a section of the bridge—yet to be officially commissioned—caved in following heavy rainfall, a situation captured in a viral video. The Deputy Speaker’s Office has expressed its dismay at these developments and is actively addressing the issue.
The Ecological Office has been informed and will convene with the project’s consultant, MX Consulting Engineering Services, and the contractor, Nespresco Services Limited, during an urgent meeting with the House’s Ecological Funds Committee. This committee will investigate the circumstances surrounding the collapse and may conduct a site visit to assess the damage and discuss remediation plans.
It’s important to note that while the Deputy Speaker advocated for the project, he did not appoint the contractors, as parliamentary members lack the authority to select contractors; this responsibility lies with relevant federal agencies.
Moreover, the Deputy Speaker has opted not to commission the bridge until its structural integrity is confirmed. He urges the residents of Nkpa, Bende constituents, and all users of the bridge to remain calm as efforts are underway to resolve these issues.
