Bayelsa Govt Clarifies Akenfa Bridge Ownership After Protest Blocks Major Road
By Passman Akpos
Yenagoa — The Bayelsa State Government has distanced itself from responsibility for the delayed completion of the Akenfa Bridge, following a protest on Tuesday that disrupted traffic along the busy Mbiama–Yenagoa Road.
Residents of Akenfa community had barricaded the major highway, accusing the state government of abandoning the bridge project which has lingered for years without completion. The demonstration caused significant gridlock, leaving commuters and motorists stranded for hours.
However, in a statement issued on Thursday, obtained by Tarakirivoice today, the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Hon. (Mrs.) Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, clarified that the Akenfa Bridge project is no longer under the control of the Bayelsa State Government, but rather the responsibility of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
According to the Commissioner, the bridge project was originally awarded by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in 2000 before being taken over by the NDDC. She explained that the state government had sought to intervene in 2023 to expedite completion after years of delay, leading to discussions between the state and the NDDC.
> “The Niger Delta Development Commission acceded to the State Government’s request to hand over the project in 2023. However, after further discussions, the NDDC reviewed its stance and the Akenfa Bridge was reverted to the Commission for completion,” the statement read.
Obiyai described the protest as “ill-advised and misdirected,” stressing that the leadership of Akenfa was aware that the project had reverted to the NDDC’s supervision. She also expressed disappointment over what she termed as attempts by community leaders to “play politics” with development issues.
> “It is surprising to see the community leaders accuse the government of abandonment in view of ongoing Prosperity ASSURED sponsored projects in the community,” she said.
The Commissioner assured residents that the state government would engage the NDDC to ensure that the project does not face further delays. She also appealed to the Akenfa community to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could disrupt public order or impede the movement of residents.
> “Government strongly advises the Akenfa community to desist from further protests that could undermine the freedom of movement of residents while a progressive approach is being adopted to ensure the completion of the Akenfa Bridge,” Obiyai concluded.
The Akenfa Bridge, seen as a crucial link in the Yenagoa metropolis, has suffered multiple delays and contractor changes since its inception. The latest protest reflects growing frustration among residents who say the bridge’s completion is vital for transportation, commerce, and flood control in the area.
