Kano Shields 50-Year-Old Bridge, Vows Tough Action Against Vandals
By Ahmad Tijjani Abdul
KANO — The Kano State Government has foiled an alleged attempt to demolish the decades-old Watari Bridge in Kumbotso Local Government Area.
Already, authorities have arrested suspects linked to the incident and are declaring that anyone caught vandalizing public infrastructure will face the full weight of the law.
The intervention came amid growing concern among residents, who feared the destruction of the bridge would deprive thousands of commuters, schoolchildren, farmers and herders of a safe passage across the busy highway.
Speaking during an inspection of the site, the Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning, Alhaji Abduljabbar Muhammad Umar, said the government neither approved nor sanctioned the demolition of the bridge.
“There is no authorization from the Kano State Government for anyone to demolish the Watari Bridge,” Umar said.
“We have arrested those suspected to be involved, and anyone found destroying public property will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.”
The commissioner said the administration remains resolute in protecting public assets, stressing that critical infrastructure built to serve communities would not be left at the mercy of vandals or unauthorized individuals.
Residents applauded the government’s swift response, describing the bridge as a lifeline that has served the community for more than 50 years.
According to them, the bridge has enabled residents and pastoralists to cross the highway safely for generations, preventing countless accidents and easing movement between communities.
“We are grateful that the government acted before the bridge was destroyed,” one resident said.
“This bridge is part of our history and an essential route for our daily lives. Losing it would have exposed many people to serious danger.”
The residents urged the state government to preserve the structure and strengthen surveillance around critical public infrastructure to prevent similar incidents in the future.