The Senator representing Taraba Central, Eng Haruna Manu, has called on President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Works to prioritize the reconstruction of the collapsed Namnai Bridge in Taraba State.
During a telephone interview with journalists on Friday, Senator Manu expressed deep concern about the economic and social disruption caused by the bridge collapse.
He highlighted the challenges faced by travelers and the negative economic impact on businesses in the region.
“I wish to appeal to President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Works to urgently consider the reconstruction of the collapsed Namnai Bridge in Taraba State,” he said.
“The bridge serves as a crucial link connecting the northeastern regions, parts of north central and southern parts of Nigeria. Its collapse has paralyzed economic activities in these regions.”
Senator Manu also criticized the delay in intervention by the North East Development Commission, saying: “Since the bridge collapsed, the commission had promised to act quickly, but no work has been started till date.”
Meanwhile, residents of Taraba State have expressed frustration over what they perceive as the federal government's neglect of their plight.
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They compared the situation to the rapid reconstruction of two other bridges along the Yola-Gombe and Gombe-Bauchi roads, which collapsed at the same time as the Namnai Bridge.
Mr Japhet Tyokyaa, a concerned resident, commented: “We wonder if Taraba is not as important as other states in Nigeria.
“The Namnai Bridge collapsed at the same time as the Yola-Gombe and Gombe-Bauchi road bridges, but although these have been rebuilt, ours has not been given any attention.”
Residents have echoed Senator Manu's call for immediate action, urging the federal government to address the problem and prevent further economic hardship in the region.
“This bridge is a lifeline for the Northeast regions, parts of the North Center and the South,” they stressed. “We appeal to President Tinubu to act quickly to save the North East economy.”
Newslodge