In collaboration with the Lagos State Government, the Federal Government has conducted a comprehensive survey to determine the condition of the pile caps on the Third Mainland Bridge, amid rumors of vandalism.
Following the joint inspection by both government entities, officials have reassured motorists and residents that the bridge remains structurally sound, alleviating any apprehensions.
The need for this clarification arose due to a recent viral report on social media that raised alarm about a vandalized section of the bridge.
The Federal Ministry of Works, represented by Engr. Olukorede Kesha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, issued a statement affirming that no acts of vandalism had occurred on the bridge’s sub-structure.
Kesha clarified, “The alleged vandalized pile caps were chiseled by the contractor, MS Borini Prono, as part of the repair process prior to the termination of the emergency repairs contract for the Third Mainland Bridge. The termination resulted from the contractor’s non-performance and slow progress.”
“The pile cap repairs involved the removal and chiseling of unstable concrete sections, replacement of weak or rusted reinforcements, application of anti-rust measures, and surface dressing with special mortar,” Kesha explained further.
“Some pile caps had been prepared and chiseled, with weak reinforcements removed for replacement just before the contract was terminated. The circulating photograph in the media refers to the section that was being prepared and chiseled as part of the ongoing rehabilitation work on the bridge.”
Consequently, it is confirmed that no part of the bridge’s sub-structure has been vandalized, and the Third Mainland Bridge is deemed safe for public use.