In a heartfelt appeal, residents of Bitaro and Ugwan Rana in Jaba Local Government Area have called on Governor Uba Sani to expedite the completion of a bridge project that has remained abandoned for nearly three years, creating significant hardships for the community.
The appeal was made by Comrade Aminu Bako, President of the Kwoi youth progressive association (KWOYOPA) on Friday. He emphasized the severe consequences the unfinished bridge has had on daily life, noting that its collapse in August 2018 resulted in the tragic deaths of two individuals. The project, initially awarded to Habibu Engineering Nigeria Limited with Gaiwan Associates Limited as the consultant, began in 2022 but was left incomplete the same year, leaving the road impassable.
“The lack of connectivity has led to dire challenges for our community,” Bako stated. “We are witnessing an increase in crime, including three reported rape cases and several motorbike thefts. Additionally, pregnant women have suffered miscarriages due to the hazardous conditions created by the abandoned project.” The situation worsens during the rainy season, rendering the road treacherous and unsafe.
The absence of proper infrastructure has resulted in significant delays in emergency services and limited access to essential goods and services, forcing residents to navigate dangerous routes and compromising their safety.
Bako underscored the bridge's critical importance for the livelihood and well-being of the residents, urging Governor Uba Sani to take immediate action to ensure the project's completion. “With government intervention, we are hopeful that the bridge can be completed, improving connectivity and enhancing safety for all community members,” he said.
As the residents await a response from the state government, they remain optimistic that their appeal will lead to the resumption and completion of the bridge project, ultimately restoring vital access and improving the quality of life for the people of Bitaro and Ugwan Rana.
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