Asaba — Once celebrated as one of the most iconic infrastructural projects in Delta State, the Koka Flyover—popularly known as Koka Bridge—has sadly deteriorated into a notorious hideout for hoodlums, sparking fear among residents, commuters, and business owners in the area.
In recent months, the bridge and its surrounding corridors have become a haven for criminal elements who operate freely without restriction. What should be a symbol of modern development has gradually turned into an eyesore and a daily reminder of the failure of responsible authorities to safeguard public infrastructure.
Residents and motorists who ply the route describe nighttime around the bridge as “a nightmare,” alleging that criminals lurk in the shadows, robbing unsuspecting passersby and sometimes attacking motorists caught in traffic or forced to slow down. Passersby say that moving near the bridge after dusk is “an invitation to trouble,” as cases of phone snatching, harassment, and attacks continue to mount.
Despite countless complaints, many believe the Delta State Government and relevant agencies appear to be handling the matter with kid gloves. Ministries and security bodies expected to protect, maintain, and sanitize such critical public infrastructure are accused of gross negligence.
According to concerned citizens, the situation is particularly disturbing considering the multi-billion-naira investment that went into constructing the Koka Flyover. The infrastructure was intended to ease traffic, beautify the capital city, and enhance safety—not become a nest for criminals.
Community members are now calling on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to take swift, decisive action. Many insist that the officials in charge of overseeing and managing the edifice should either rise to their responsibilities or be replaced for allowing hoodlums to take over such a strategic location.
“The bridge is an eyesore in the daytime, and at night it becomes a danger zone,” lamented a resident who travels through the axis daily. “This is unacceptable. Government must regain control of Koka Bridge before the situation worsens.”
Asaba residents are urging the state government, security agencies, and urban management authorities to immediately reclaim the area, intensify surveillance, restore sanitation, and flush out all criminal elements to ensure safety for all.
Unless urgent steps are taken, they warn, the Koka Bridge may continue to pose a serious threat to the peace and security of the state capital—undoing the very essence of why it was built.