From Muawuya Bala Idris, Katsina
The Katsina State Government has dismissed reports that the Dutsin-Ma–Yantumaki–Mararrabar Kankara road has been closed due to insecurity, insisting the route remains safe and open to motorists.
The state Commissioner for Information and Culture, Dr Bala Salisu Zango, made the clarification while addressing journalists in Katsina on Wednesday. He was reacting to a statement issued by the Dutsin-Ma branch of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), which advised its members and other motorists to avoid using the road for safety reasons.
The statement, signed by the branch chairman, Aminu Usman, alleged that the road had become dangerous following reported cases of kidnapping involving drivers and passengers. The union subsequently directed its members to suspend operations along the route.
However, Dr Zango described the claims as exaggerated, urging the public to disregard the statement.
“The Dutsin-Ma–Yantumaki–Mararrabar Kankara road is still safe and accessible to motorists. The situation has been overblown, and there is no official closure of the road,” he said.
He stressed that shutting down the road could negatively impact the local economy by disrupting the movement of goods and services.
“This route is a key corridor for emergency services, including ambulances and fire trucks, to reach remote communities,” he added.
The commissioner noted that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, has maintained checkpoints along the road for several years to ensure the safety of commuters.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to securing not only this route but all highways affected by security challenges in the state.
Meanwhile, the Katsina State Chairman of NURTW, Alhaji Musa Garba, announced the suspension of the Dutsin-Ma branch chairman, Aminu Usman, for issuing what he described as a “false and unauthorized statement.”
Garba said the union would continue to work with the government and security agencies to ensure the safety of its members and the general public.
