Flood washes away bridge linking N/West, S/West in Kebbi, Sokoto

A flood has washed away a key bridge linking Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States with southern Nigeria, in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto and Shanga in Kebbi State.

The bridge collapsed on Monday following heavy rainfall, leaving many travellers from Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara stranded on their way south.

Also, travellers heading from the southwest to the northwest were left stuck, unable to cross into Kebbi to continue their journey toward Sokoto and Zamfara.

During an inspection of the collapsed bridge, Governor Nasir Idris called on the Federal Ministry of Works to urgently address the situation to alleviate the hardship faced by travellers.

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He said the collapse would have a significant impact on traders and farmers across the country.

“I urge the Federal Ministry of Works to act swiftly and assist the affected businesspeople, as this road is the sole route linking Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Niger with southern Nigeria,” the governor said.

He explained that the bridge, which collapsed on Sunday night, is located in Kebbe Local Government Area, Sokoto State, on the route to Niger State, serving as a vital connection between the southern and northwestern regions.

He highlighted the importance of repairing the bridge promptly, noting that businesses in both regions would suffer due to the disruption.

He also expressed concern that motorists were now forced to take a much longer detour through Dakingari in Suru Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

Governor Idris stressed the need for the Federal Ministry of Works to expedite the bridge repairs to prevent further economic losses.