Kebbi Community Appeals to Governor Idris to Save Collapsing Bridge

Kebbi Community Appeals to Governor Idris to Save Collapsing Bridge

BIRNIN KEBBI -  Residents of Bayan Gandun Kaya in Illelar-Yari, Birnin Kebbi, say their only access route to the state capital is on the verge of giving way after years of neglect.


The settlement, widely called “Gadar Obi” or “Obison,” is located behind Malam Mainasara’s Islamiyya School within Illelar-Yari in Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area. Community members explained that the structure was erected decades ago by a contractor identified as Obi while he was extracting sand and gravel for the renovation of the Army Barracks.  

Speaking with our correspondent on Thursday, the community leader, Alhaji Faruku Abubakar, also known as “Sala-Sala Madam,” described the current condition as critical.  “This single bridge connects us to Birnin Kebbi town and neighboring areas. Without it, we are stranded,” he stated.  
“Obi built two bridges here a long time ago. Since then, we have been maintaining them ourselves. At this point, the side walls have caved in.” He noted that persistent flooding and wind have weakened the base of both structures. “Both bridges have broken down at the edges. If urgent steps are not taken, the whole thing will collapse,” he cautioned.  


He further said the area is contending with serious erosion and creeping desertification. According to Alhaji Faruku, several appeals to past governments yielded no result. “For years we sent letters and complaints, but we got no attention,” he said. 

 
He added that their hopes were renewed following a visit by Alhaji Umar Idris Buro, younger brother to Governor Nasir Idris. “He inspected the site and assured us he would present our case to His Excellency, Governor Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, for immediate government action,” he disclosed.
Also speaking, Malam Tukur Usman, a resident, lamented the poor state of the road and bridges. “We try to fix it annually with community efforts, but the damage is now too much for us,” he said.  

“We are calling on the government and kind-hearted citizens to intervene before disaster strikes.” Malam Tukur warned of the consequences if the bridge fails. “Should it collapse, our children will be unable to attend school, farmers will be cut off from markets, and patients will struggle to reach hospitals. It will cripple our livelihoods,” he explained.


Another resident, Malam Umar, observed that the area is expanding quickly due to new housing development. “Bayan Gandun Kaya is turning into a growing urban settlement. Beyond the bridge, we also require proper road networks,” he said. 
“We urge the current administration and any willing donor to assist us in rebuilding the bridge.” The community expressed optimism that the state government would respond promptly to prevent them from being completely cut off.