The Bayelsa State government has appealed for calm over the delay in delivering the Akenfa Bridge under construction.
The government assured that efforts are being made to complete the bridge for the social economic benefits of the state and community.
This was contained in a press state statement signed by the state Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Koku Ebiouwou – Obiyai.
“The attention of the Bayelsa State government has been drawn to the recent blockage of Mbiama Yenagoa Road at Akenfa by the community over delay in the completion of the Akenfa Bridge after several years of award.
“The public is aware that contract for the Akenfa Bridge was first awarded by Shell Petroleum Development Company in 2000.
“The project was later taken over by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
“In 2023, due to the long delay of the NDDC to complete the project and the concern by the plight of the residents at that corridor of the state capital, the state government requested NDDC to handover the bridge and some other critical projects in Bayelsa State to the government in order to facilitate their completion.
The Niger Delta Development Commission acceded to the state government’s request to hand-over the project in 2023.
“However, the NDDC after discussion with the state government later reviewed its stance and the Akenfa Bridge was reverted to the NDDC for completion.
Read also:
- TOMBIA CHIEFTAINCY TUSSLE: Bayelsa Govt directs feuding Parties to uphold rotational principle In community’s constitution
- Bayelsa United coaches, players get 2-match ultimatum
- Women’s Champions League: Diri woos corporate bodies for Bayelsa Queens Campaign
“As it stands, the project is the responsibility of the NDDC and not the Bayelsa State government. The leadership of Akenfa is aware of this development
“Therefore, the obstruction of Mbiama /Yenagoa Road in protest against the state government over the Akenfa Bridge was ill-advised and misdirected.
“It is also surprising to see the community leaders accusing the government of abandonment in view of ongoing sponsored projects in the community.
“Government is disappointed that the community leadership is playing politics with their community’s development,” the commissioner said.
However, the state government added that it has taken note of the concern of Akenfa community and would engage the NDDC to ensure that the bridge does not suffer any further delay.
“Government strongly advises the Akenfa community to exercise restraint and desist from further protest that could undermine the freedom of movement of residents while a progressive approach is being adopted to ensure the completion of the Akenfa Bridge,” it advised.
