FIC REPORT (OGUN STATE) – The Federal Ministry of Works has declared the Oju-Ore Bridge in Ota, Ogun State, structurally sound and safe for use, dismissing social media claims of structural defects on the project.
The assurance was given on Friday during an inspection of the ongoing bridge project by a delegation from the ministry led by the Director of Bridges, Highways and Road Designs, Engr. Musa Saidu.
Engr. Saidu said the inspection was carried out on the directive of the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, following public concerns and viral posts questioning the integrity of the bridge.
Addressing journalists after the inspection, he stated that the bridge had undergone all required integrity tests and met approved engineering standards.
“The bridge has undergone integrity tests and passed. It is structurally stable,” he said.
“No one can determine the integrity of a bridge simply by taking photographs or posting videos on social media. Engineering decisions are based on scientific tests, not assumptions,” Saidu added.
He noted that the project was being executed in line with approved designs and specifications under the strict supervision of relevant authorities.
The director commended the quality of work done by the contractor, Laralek Construction Company, saying it was satisfactory. He added that only minor finishing issues identified during the inspection would be corrected before final completion.
According to him, the fact that heavy-duty vehicles have already been traversing the bridge, even before full completion, further confirms its structural capacity and stability.
“The structural stability of the bridge is guaranteed. That heavy trucks are already moving across it demonstrates its strength,” he stated.
Engr. Saidu urged members of the public to support indigenous contractors executing federal projects and to desist from spreading unverified information capable of undermining confidence in critical infrastructure.
He also warned traders and residents against operating under the bridge while construction works are still ongoing.
Also speaking, the Federal Controller of Works in Ogun State, Engr. Adeleke Richard, said the contractor had in some instances gone beyond the approved specifications, including increasing pavement thickness for durability.
The ministry reiterated its commitment to delivering quality and durable federal infrastructure across the country.
Shittu Hammed O
CIO/PRO
FIC, Abeokuta
14/09/2027
