Many travellers are feared dead following a suspected bomb explosion on the Yar’Tasha–Dansadau highway in , further highlighting the growing insecurity on major roads in Nigeria’s North-West.
The explosion occurred on the busy stretch linking Yar’Tasha to Dansadau in , a route frequently used by commercial drivers, traders and local commuters. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the blast struck as vehicles were passing, triggering panic and leaving several motorists stranded along the road.
The has confirmed the incident. According to the Zamfara State Police Command, security operatives were immediately deployed to the scene, while preliminary assessments suggest the explosion may have been caused by an improvised explosive device (IED). However, as of press time, the police said the exact cause and the number of casualties were still being verified.
A spokesperson for the command said investigations were ongoing, adding that details regarding fatalities and injuries would be officially communicated once confirmed. Emergency responders and local vigilantes were also reported to be assisting in clearing the area and providing help to victims.
The Yar’Tasha–Dansadau axis has in recent years witnessed repeated attacks linked to armed bandit groups operating across parts of Zamfara, Katsina and neighbouring states. Highways in these areas have increasingly become targets for ambushes, kidnappings and the planting of explosives, raising serious concerns about the safety of road users.
Residents and road users have called on the federal and state governments to strengthen security patrols on major highways, improve intelligence gathering and take decisive action to prevent further attacks. As investigations continue, authorities have advised travellers to avoid the route until it is declared safe.
Further updates are expected as security agencies release more details on the explosion and its aftermath.