By Agorehmi Bright, Reporting
LIKE a James Bond movie, a tragic incident unfolded in Rivers State on Monday night, claiming the life of a Dutch expatriate.
Afam Gibson Reuben, the Managing Director and CEO of Rivers State Cassava Industry Limited, drowned when his SUV plunged into the Aleto River while he was fleeing from kidnappers.
The body
The incident occurred around 10:00 p.m.
The Aleto Bridge, a critical access route in Eleme Local Government Area, has come under scrutiny.
Home to several multinational companies, the bridge connects over 400,000 businesses in Eleme to the state and beyond.
However, it has now become a “death trap” for commuters due to its poor condition and ongoing construction on the Eleme East-West Road.
The vehicle being towed out of the river
Chief Brian Gokpa, Executive Chairman of Eleme Local Government, addressed the tragedy through his press secretary, stating, “Professional divers have been deployed to recover the vehicle.”
While Reuben was found lifeless, his driver, who was rescued, remains unconscious in an undisclosed hospital.
Govt officials at the scene
The local community has expressed frustration over the deteriorating road conditions and the delays in completing the East-West Road project.
Residents cite frequent accidents, heavy traffic, and a lack of safety measures as ongoing dangers.
The vehicle being towed
“Only God knows when this forever road project will come to completion,” lamented a local.
Given Eleme’s significant contribution to the state and national economy, urgent action is needed to address the unsafe road conditions.
Residents and stakeholders are calling on relevant authorities to prioritise the completion of the road project and implement measures to prevent further loss of life.
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