The closure of a vital section of the Kano-Maiduguri Expressway in Maiduguri, Borno State, has prompted a formal plea for its reopening. Hamza Dantani, a legal practitioner, through Kayode Ajulo & Co. Chambers, has addressed a letter to the Chief of Air Staff, urging the Nigerian Air Force to reconsider the continued blockage of the expressway adjacent to Gomari Way, opposite Barwee Hotel, along the Air Force Barracks. This section of the dual carriageway has remained inaccessible for nine years, since 2015, significantly impacting the lives of residents and motorists. Dantani emphasizes the road’s crucial role as a major artery connecting various parts of Maiduguri and the wider northern Nigeria region, providing access to Borno State University, residential estates like the 777 and 1000 Housing Estates, and communities such as Gomari and Moranti. The closure has forced traffic onto alternative routes, creating congestion and increasing the risk of accidents.
The initial justification for the road closure stemmed from security concerns amidst the volatile security situation in the region. However, Dantani argues that the security landscape has significantly improved over the years, with no reported security incidents in the vicinity for a considerable period. He contends that the prolonged closure is no longer warranted, given the improved security situation and the detrimental impact it continues to have on the community. The closure’s negative consequences are multifaceted, ranging from the daily inconveniences faced by residents to the heightened risks of traffic accidents due to congestion and diversions. The plea highlights the urgent need to reassess the security rationale behind the closure and prioritize the safety and convenience of the public.
Dantani’s appeal carries a personal dimension, underscored by the tragic loss of his uncle, Garba Umar Abdullahi, a former employee of Borno Express, in a road accident attributed to the expressway blockage. This personal tragedy reinforces the gravity of the situation and the potential for further loss of life if the road remains closed. Police reports corroborate the link between the closure and an increased number of accidents, providing further impetus for the Air Force to reconsider its position. The letter underscores the human cost of the continued closure and emphasizes the need for a solution that balances security concerns with the well-being of the community.
The letter to the Chief of Air Staff meticulously outlines the adverse effects of the prolonged closure on various aspects of daily life in Maiduguri. It highlights the disruption to traffic flow, the inconvenience caused to residents, the increased risk of accidents, and the negative economic implications for businesses and commuters. Dantani argues that the closure has created a bottleneck, forcing traffic onto smaller, less equipped roads, resulting in congestion and increased travel times. This has a ripple effect on the local economy, affecting businesses that rely on smooth transportation and impacting the livelihoods of those who depend on the road for their daily commute. Furthermore, the congestion and diversions contribute to a heightened risk of accidents, putting lives at risk.
Beyond the immediate impact on traffic and safety, the closure also affects access to essential services and institutions. The Borno State University, a vital educational institution, becomes less accessible due to the diverted routes and increased travel times. Similarly, residents of the 777 and 1000 Housing Estates and communities like Gomari and Moranti face significant disruptions to their daily routines. The closure effectively isolates these communities, making it more challenging for residents to access essential services, conduct business, and engage in social activities. This isolation has a detrimental effect on the overall quality of life for residents in the affected areas.
The appeal to the Nigerian Air Force emphasizes the need for a reassessment of the security situation and a balanced approach that considers both security and the well-being of the community. While acknowledging the initial legitimacy of the security concerns that led to the closure, the letter argues that the current situation warrants a review. The improved security environment, coupled with the significant negative consequences of the closure, necessitates a reconsideration of the decision. Dantani urges the Air Force to prioritize the safety and convenience of residents and motorists, emphasizing the importance of restoring access to this critical transportation artery. The plea calls for a solution that addresses security concerns while minimizing disruption to the lives of the affected communities.
