Port Harcourt, Nigeria – The Minister of Works in Nigeria, David Umahi, refuted allegations that the ongoing rehabilitation of the Eleme section of the East-West Road in Rivers State led to a tragic incident that resulted in five fatalities. Umahi urged the Federal Road Safety Commission to install checkpoints to monitor drivers under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
During a visit to the site of the tanker fire in Eleme, Umahi expressed condolences to the families of the victims and sympathized with the state government. He denounced attempts to link the road rehabilitation authorized by President Bola Tinubu to the unfortunate event, emphasizing the necessity of the construction work on the heavily trafficked road.
Umahi highlighted the significant enhancements made to the road infrastructure under President Tinubu’s directive, underscoring the durability and quality of the ongoing construction. He attributed the accident to the recklessness of drivers engaging in competitive behavior on the road.
The Minister called for increased vigilance by the Federal Road Safety Commission to prevent similar incidents caused by drivers under the influence of substances like ‘Mkpuru-mmiri’ and hard drugs. He emphasized the importance of enforcing safety measures to protect lives and property.
Umahi’s visit also included an inspection of the Enugu-Port Harcourt highway construction, where he commended the progress made by the construction company. He reassured that the project would adhere to timelines set by President Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing quality and efficiency in infrastructure development efforts.
Overall, Umahi’s responses to the tragic event and commitment to upholding safety standards reflect the government’s dedication to improving road infrastructure and ensuring public safety on Nigeria’s roadways.