The Gimbiyar Lau, Hajiya Mamma Fati Ibrahim Hassan Lau, has called on the federal government to declare the reconstruction of the collapsed Namnai Bridge in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State a national emergency following a tragic boat mishap that claimed multiple lives.
Speaking to journalists on Sunday, Gimbiyar Lau, who lost three family members in the accident that occurred at the site of the collapsed bridge on Saturday, urged both federal and state authorities to immediately commence reconstruction work on the long-abandoned infrastructure.
According to reports, the incident involved eight of her relatives. While five were rescued, one body has been recovered, and two others remain missing as rescue operations enter the third day.
Describing the tragedy as preventable, Gimbiyar Lau blamed years of governmental neglect for forcing residents to rely on unsafe water transportation in the area, which becomes particularly dangerous during the rainy season when river levels rise significantly.
"The Jalingo–Wukari corridor where the bridge is located is a major economic artery linking northern and southern Nigeria. It is essential for the movement of agricultural produce, livestock, and goods supporting commerce and fostering regional integration," she stated.
She appealed to Governor Agbu Kefas to intensify pressure on the federal government to prioritize the bridge's reconstruction, noting its critical importance not just for local communities but for the nation's economic activities.
While expressing condolences to affected families, particularly the Alkali Hassan Lau and Badikko families, residents of Lau, Gassol, Jalingo Council, and Tarabans at large, she urged federal authorities to "immediately insert the right peg in the right hole in order to prevent future occurrences."
The Namnai Bridge collapse has highlighted the deteriorating state of critical infrastructure in Taraba State and the life-threatening consequences for local communities who must find alternative, often dangerous, means of transportation.
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