Second Niger Brigde Becoming First In Nigeria To Be Tolled Is Unacceptable
By Charles Ifeanyi Obi
Public Affairs Analyst
The Second Niger bridge nearing completion will become the first bridge in Nigeria to be tolled.
However, with the toll fee attached on the new soon-to-be completed bridge, the problems of the current failing bridge may not have been resolved because many may prefer to ply a toll-free route than a tolled one. And to maximize gains, I foresee incidents where usage of the old Niger bridge is crumbled surreptitiously to increase traffic on the new tolled route.
On the other hand, I am wondering why the federal government is insistent on tolling the second Niger bridge borne by economic necessities whereas many lesser economic routes have been constructed across the country without tolls implemented.
Nonetheless, it is important to remind the FG that the said project is serviced by the people’s money and they should not be compelled to pay to use it. However, if for any reason they feel a temporary (or permanent) tolling is necessary, there has to be a town hall meeting with concerned stakeholders cum representatives of the people of the affected areas to discuss modalities and usage of proceeds.
Having said that, I commend President Muhammad Buhari and his team for showing seriousness on the second Niger bridge and other projects allocated to the South, South East and Anambra State in particular.
With the completion of the second Niger bridge, posterity will be kind to you, Mr President… because even amidst the clamour, your predecessors choose to play politics with it but you, despite the resentments of the South against your leadership style and policies, you have shown unprecedented commitment to deliver on the project.
Thank you Buhari!
Cc
Muhammadu Buhari
Femi Adesina
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