- By Aminu Abdullahi Ibrahim
A bridge collapse in Fajewa village, Takai Local Government, Kano State, has plunged residents into hardship, particularly affecting children and women, who against their religion unwillingly pay men to carry them out of the river.
Good Evening Nigeria learnt that the collapse of the bridge, located just 10 kilometers from the Takai Local Government Secretariat, has severely impacted four communities: Fajewa, Birnin Bako, Tumbushi, and Gidan Malam, all within Takai Local Government. It is also an essential link to the border of Bauchi State.
A visit to the villages affected by the ruined bridge revealed that villagers could no longer access schools, and hospitals, or bring their farm products to the main markets in Takai LG.
Meanwhile, people must pay dues before they are shouldered out of the river whenever they have to travel or go to the neighboring communities.
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It was said that there was a pregnant woman who died in an attempt to swim out of the river to the general hospital of Takai.
Mr. Hassan, a 27-year-old who participates in this impromptu ferry service, revealed that they charge fees ranging from 200 to 300 naira for a person and 500 to 700 naira for those with luggage to cross the river.
Some women, who have no alternative, reluctantly pay these fees to reach their destinations. They pointed out the challenging circumstances they face, emphasizing that it goes against Islamic customs to allow unrelated men to carry women on their shoulders.
However, they feel compelled to make this exception due to the situation’s urgency.
Local residents expressed the trauma caused by the bridge’s collapse, preventing them from accessing medical care when needed. They believe that rebuilding the bridge is the key to ending their travel difficulties.
In a plea for help, the affected villagers are calling upon their politicians, especially the senator representing Kano South, members representing their constituency in state assembly, and the Kano State government, to assist in reconstructing the vital bridge.
When contacted, the member representing the Takai constituency at the state house of assembly, Mr. Musa Ali Kachako said he recently presented a motion urging the state government to repair the bridge, and awaiting consideration.
He hopes the state government will address the urgent needs of these communities by reconstructing the bridge.