In the wake of heavy rainfall causing the collapse of a crucial bridge that connects Assakio and Ashige communities in Lafia Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, residents are now appealing for urgent assistance from the state government.
The unfortunate incident has forced motorists to abandon the once bustling road, as confirmed by recent investigations.
Musa Yahuza, a farmer in Ashige, expressed distress over the impact of the bridge collapse on daily activities, highlighting the strain it has placed on the local economy and work routines for government employees and traders post the Sallah holidays.
Yahuza emphasized the significance of the bridge as a vital link to neighboring communities and farms, underscoring the urgency for its prompt repair to avert potential food crises as farming activities intensify with the onset of the rainy season.
A concerned civil servant named Mr. Ahmed shared his apprehension about the deteriorating situation, fearing its escalation during the impending rainy season, which hindered his commute to the office.
Daniel Agya, the Youth Leader of Akunza/Ashige community, joined the plea for immediate governmental intervention in reconstructing the critical bridge, recognizing its pivotal role in sustaining community connections and commerce.
Esson Mairiga, the legislator representing Lafia North Constituency, condemned the adverse effects of the bridge collapse on agricultural productivity and urged swift government action to secure food supplies and prevent further economic setbacks.
Mairiga highlighted the plight of the locals and the potential ripple impact on various economic activities within the region, stressing the government’s urgent intervention to avert a catastrophic collapse of the region’s economic lifeline.
Despite unsuccessful attempts to reach the State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Yakubu Kwanta, for comments, it was comforting to learn from Peter Ahemba, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Abdullahi Sule on Public Affairs, that the state government is committed to immediate reconstruction efforts for the collapsed bridge.