A bridge connecting Abia and Imo states through the Ubaha Oriendu-Ihite Uboma axis has suffered damage from flooding, prompting a traditional ruler to warn that nearby communities could be cut off if urgent repairs are not carried out.
Eze Phillip Ajomiwe, the traditional ruler of Ubaha Oriendu Ancient Kingdom in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State, raised the alarm during an inspection of the damaged structure.
He blamed the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for failing to act on repeated appeals to rehabilitate the bridge, which he said sustained damage during heavy rains in September.
Ajomiwe called on the commission, the Abia State Government and relevant federal agencies to intervene before further erosion causes more extensive damage.
He described the bridge as an important route for farmers, fishermen and residents of agrarian communities who rely on it for movement and trade between the two states.
The monarch said he had previously written to the NDDC about the bridge’s deteriorating condition and was assured that rehabilitation would be included in the commission’s budget. However, he said no work had been carried out.
“If nothing is done, the bridge may totally collapse and our people living on the other side of the river will be cut off,” Ajomiwe warned, urging authorities to provide immediate temporary repairs.
Separately, the Ngada Bridge linking Ngada Isuochi community in Umunneochi with neighbouring communities has collapsed, disrupting pedestrian and vehicular movement.
Umeh Mathias, the member representing Umunneochi Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, confirmed the collapse to DAILY POST and promised to act on the matter.
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