Bauchi Lawmakers Seek Reconstruction Of Collapsed Bridge

Bauchi State House of Assembly has called on the state government to reconstruct the collapsed bridge at Falama Ward, which links Gandi–Zakshi–Kufai in the Toro local government area, to ease the growing hardships residents and road users face.

The appeal came through a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Hamza Sa’idu, a member representing Toro/Jama’a Constituency, during yesterday’s plenary, which was presided over by the Speaker Abubakar Y. Sulaiman.

In his presentation, Sa’idu urged the government to commence emergency reconstruction of the bridge, which connects several communities in Toro, Dass, and neighbouring Plateau State. He explained that heavy rainfall in recent weeks caused the collapse, leaving an estimated 17,000 to 20,000 residents stranded.

According to him, the situation has disrupted economic activities, with farmers, traders, and motorists struggling to reach nearby markets and communities.

While calling for permanent repairs, Sa’idu advised road users to take alternative routes to avoid further hardship.

The Speaker Abubakar Y. Sulaiman directed the Clerk of the House to formally communicate the resolution to the executive arm for immediate action.

In another development, Hon. Lawal Dauda, representing Sade Constituency in Darazo local government area, has raised concerns over the rising menace of dangerous motorcycle riding in Bauchi metropolis and other key locations.

Dauda accused some riders, mostly youths, of engaging in over-speeding, removing silencers popularly called ‘mopular’, unnecessary horning, and driving against traffic, all in violation of traffic laws.

He recalled a recent incident at Fadamar Mada where a one-way violator knocked down a family of four, killing one and injuring three others.

He stressed that such reckless acts not only endanger lives but also undermine cultural and religious values.

The lawmaker urged the state government to direct the Bauchi Road Traffic Agency (BAROTA), in collaboration with other security agencies, to enforce strict penalties against offenders.

He also called on community and religious leaders to help educate residents about the dangers of reckless riding.

Contributing to the debate, Hon. Bala Abdu Rishi of Lame Constituency supported the call for severe sanctions on offenders.

The Speaker Abubakar Sulaiman directed the House Committee on Works and Transport to oversee BAROTA’s operations and report back with recommendations.