A foreign national and several others are feared dead after a white Toyota Hilux, reportedly belonging to a company, plunged into the Okulu Aleto Bridge in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State. The incident occurred on Monday when the vehicle's driver attempted to flee from suspected kidnappers.
According to local sources, a company convoy was attacked by armed gunmen near the Aleto Bridge, triggering a chaotic escape attempt. The driver, attempting to evade the assailants, lost control of the vehicle, which skidded off the deteriorating bridge and plunged into the Okulu River below.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attack took place on the East-West Road, a vital route linking Port Harcourt to Ogoni communities and Akwa Ibom. Despite the road's importance, the Aleto Bridge has long been a source of concern due to its dilapidated condition. The bridge is currently under reconstruction, but its structural issues, including the removal of railings by vandals, have left it unsafe for use.
The poor state of the Aleto Bridge is said to have contributed significantly to the vehicle's plunge, as the lack of protective barriers left the vehicle vulnerable. In addition to the physical dangers of the bridge, there are growing reports of a kidnap gang operating in the area, using the river to transport victims to unknown destinations.
Joseph Obele, the Chairman of the Property Owners on Eleme East-West Road, has voiced concerns over the state of the Aleto Bridge, calling for the revocation of the construction contract awarded to RCC. He pointed out that despite repeated warnings from the public, the company had not taken necessary action to address the bridge’s hazardous condition, leading to the tragic incident. Obele further emphasized that the accident highlights the urgent need for a more reliable and safer route for commuters.
In response to the incident, rescue operations were quickly launched, with emergency teams from the Rivers State Emergency Management Agency (REMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and local police working tirelessly to search for survivors.
The search and rescue efforts were mobilized on Tuesday morning by Chief Brain Gokpa, Chairman of Eleme Local Government Area. A source familiar with the operation revealed that by late Tuesday, the vehicle had been located, and one of its occupants was confirmed dead. The search continued into the night, as authorities and rescue teams scoured the river for additional victims.
Meanwhile, newly appointed Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olugbenga Adewole, visited the scene to oversee the operation and commended local government officials, especially the Eleme LGA Chairman, for their swift response to the crisis.
The incident has further underscored the pressing need for infrastructure improvements in the region, as well as stronger measures to combat rising insecurity along major roads in the state. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the kidnapping attempt, with the search operation ongoing as of press time.
