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 By Ukpa Ewa

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Awka Capital Development Authority (ACTDA), Mr. Ossy Onuko, has urged people to use the pedestrian bridge when crossing the expressway.

Mr Onuko made the appeal while addressing the Awka residents at Unizik Junction where he disclosed that it was against the law for anybody to cross the highway through drainage.

The ACTDA Boss who emphasized the need for the use of the bridge stated that henceforth, the use of the drainage as a walkway is completely banned, urging the residents to instead use the well-built standard pedestrian bridge.

"We have found that people prefer using the drainage for convenience, bridging it with logs of wood, which poses significant risks of accidents. Vehicles trying to avoid hitting these makeshift crossings often get damaged, and lives are put at risk daily,"

"As an agency, we have tried to stop this in a friendly manner, but it hasn't worked. We have now set up an enforcement team led by community leaders to ensure compliance. Anyone failing to use the pedestrian bridge or attempting to cross through the drainage will face a fine of ₦5,000 or be handed over to the police." he said

The Managing Director however hinted that the order was aimed at raising awareness and ensuring the safety of all road users while assuring that the enforcement project would be sustained.

Commending government’s efforts, Mrs. Chika Nnamani spoke on the dangers of crossing the drainage, recalling a tragic incident where a vehicle knocked down a woman and her child.

"I used to cross the drainage, but after witnessing that accident, I stopped. I urge the government to keep up the good work," she said.

Similarly, a tricycle driver Onyekachukwu Michael also supported the move, noting that many lives were lost due to accidents at Unizik and Regina Caeli Junction. He advised people to use the pedestrian bridge and avoid crossing the drainage, praising ACTDA's efforts to enhance road safety.