The Oju-Ore Bridge in Ota, Ogun State, is safe and physically sound, according to the Federal Ministry of Works, which has rejected allegations of structural failure.
According to the ministry, the bridge is being constructed in accordance with authorised engineering standards and has passed all necessary integrity tests.
The promise came after a delegation headed by Engineer Musa Saidu, Director of Bridges, Highways, and Road Designs, inspected the project at the request of Engineer David Umahi, Minister of Works.
After the examination, Saidu told reporters that the evaluation demonstrated adherence to engineering standards and that the failure accusations were unfounded.
He cautioned against drawing judgements about the reliability of significant infrastructure from images and videos shared on social media, emphasising that such judgements must be supported by rigorous research.
“The bridge passed integrity testing. It has a stable structure. He stated that scientific testing, not conjecture, provides the foundation for engineering judgements.
Saidu stated that the ministry will not sacrifice quality on federal projects, adding that although the contractor, Laralek Construction Company, produced work of a good calibre, any small finishing flaws would be fixed prior to completion.
“The bridge’s structural stability is assured.” Despite the fact that building is still ongoing, heavy trucks are already traversing it, he claimed.
He cautioned merchants not to operate beneath the bridge while construction is underway and asked the public to stop disseminating unreliable information that could undermine trust in public infrastructure.
Tope Ojo, a representative of Laralek Construction Company, stated that significant components, such as piers, beams, bearings, and spans, were built in accordance with approved designs, with some going above and above minimum standards.
“There’s nothing to be concerned about. Every integrity test needed for the bridge has been carried out, and the outcomes have all verified adherence to engineering requirements, according to Ojo.
Akomolafe Zubair, a member of the Oju-Ore Stakeholders Council, praised the ministry’s explanation, saying it will rebuild public trust and asked locals and drivers to be patient till the project is finished.