Nigerian Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has inspected the damaged flyover at Keffi, Nasarawa State, caused by an overburdened truck carrying an excavator.
According to the statement released by the Ministry, revealed the impact of the collision which completely dislodged one of the beams and damaged two others as the on-the-spot assessment was undertaken on Sunday.
Umahi was accompanied by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Mal. Mohammed A. Ahmed, Deputy Director, Design and Bridges, Engr. Musa Seidu, Federal Controller of Works, FCT, Engr. Yakubu Usman and other officials.
After the preliminary inspection, which revealed visible cracks on the structure caused by the force of the impact, Umahi ordered the immediate closure of the affected carriageway of the flyover to traffic to prevent further damage, as well as mitigate risk.
While one beam has fallen entirely and damaged the walkway and parapet, the other two beams, though damaged, have retained their structural integrity, according to the engineers. The underpass has been cleared, but the overpass remains closed as a precaution.
The process is expected to take approximately thirty (30) days, after which a strength test will be conducted before reinstallation. Umahi emphasised that the integrity of the structure will be fully restored before reopening it for vehicular traffic.
These emergency repairs, he revealed, will be handled through an intervention fund, pending the release of resources.
The Minister assured the general public that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is fully aware of the unfortunate incident and has directed immediate remedial action to restore the facility, which serves a critical transport corridor.
He also commiserated with the families that lost their loved ones, while wishing the wounded, quick recovery.
The Ministry will continue to work closely with the contractor and other relevant stakeholders to ensure a swift and safe reconstruction exercise.