By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar |
Katsina TIMES
Following a public outcry from community advocate and former councillorship aspirant, Hon. Salman Ahmed Gafai, the Katsina State Government has commenced assessment for the construction of a new road linking Kofar ‘Yandaka to the Ring Road.
A technical inspection team led by the Chairman of the Katsina State Roads Maintenance Agency (KASSAROMA), Engr. Surajo Yazid Abukur, visited the proposed 4-kilometre route on Sunday, May 25, 2025. The team included key engineers and the Chairman of Katsina Local Government Council, Hon. Isah Miqdad.
The inspection followed a formal complaint submitted by Hon. Gafai to Governor Dikko Umar Radda shortly after Gafai’s release from a correctional facility. He had raised concerns over infrastructural neglect in his community, identifying the lack of a proper road as a significant barrier to development.
Speaking to journalists during the visit, Engr. Yazid assured residents that construction work would begin soon. “We are fully committed to starting the project promptly. Youths from this area will be engaged during the construction to provide jobs and reduce idleness,” he stated.
In his remarks, Hon. Gafai applauded the governor’s swift action. “We appreciate this timely response from the government. If the promise is fulfilled, we will give our full support. But if it turns out otherwise, we’ll continue to speak the truth,” he said.
Likewise, the Chairman of Katsina Local Government, Hon. Miqdad, expressed confidence in the successful delivery of the project. “This road project is as good as completed. Governor Radda does not make empty promises. We will ensure it is executed without delays,” he said. He also announced plans to install 20 solar-powered streetlights along the road to enhance security.
It will be recalled that Hon. Gafai recently defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) after a fallout with the current administration. His arrest had sparked controversy, but Governor Radda personally intervened and ordered the withdrawal of the case, describing the incident as unauthorised and calling for peaceful resolution.
As preparations for the new road construction progress, residents of the affected communities remain cautiously optimistic, hoping this commitment will not become another unfulfilled promise.
