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Residents and a concerned citizen, Comrade Chileru Tordue Emmanuel, have raised alarms over the poor condition of the Katsina-Ala-Abaji-Tordonga-Harga Trunk ‘A’ road, which connects Benue and Taraba States. In a recent appeal, Emmanuel has urged the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and relevant authorities to address the issue urgently.
Constructed in the early 1980s during the administration of President Shehu Shagari, the road remains a vital link for several farming communities across Katsina-Ala, Ukum, Takum, Donga, and Ussa Local Government Areas in both states. However, its current state—riddled with potholes, ditches, and muddy sections—has rendered it nearly impassable, especially during the rainy season.
Findings reveal that the road’s rehabilitation was included in the 2021 national budget following a motion by Hon. Richard Gbande, then House of Representatives member for the Sankera constituency. The contract was awarded to Gerawa Construction & Engineering Company, owned by Alhaji Mohammed Isah Gerawa. Despite this, only about four kilometers have received partial work, leaving the rest in a deplorable state.
Comrade Emmanuel lamented that the deteriorating road conditions have led to frequent accidents, health risks, and increased mosquito breeding, contributing to rising malaria cases in nearby communities. He has called for an investigation into Gerawa Construction & Engineering Company’s activities and demanded that proper rehabilitation work be carried out without further delay.
Local residents echo Emmanuel’s concerns, hoping for swift action to restore this critical route and mitigate its impact on their daily lives.
