Katsina Government Denies Rumours of Road Closure in Dutsinma, NURTW Suspends Local Branch Chairman
By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina TIMES | June 11, 2025
The Katsina State Government has denied widespread rumours that key roads linking Dutsinma to Yantumaki and Marabar Kankara have been shut down due to security concerns.
Speaking during a press briefing held at the Government House on Tuesday, June 11, 2025, the Commissioner for Information, Dr Bala Salisu Zango, described the reports as false and misleading, aimed at causing unnecessary panic among the public.
Dr Zango clarified that neither the state government nor any security agency had issued an order to close the roads in question, assuring residents that the Dutsinma–Yantumaki and Marabar Kankara routes remain open and safe for motorists and the general public.
The confusion reportedly stemmed from a statement allegedly released by the Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Dutsinma, Malam Aminu Usman, which claimed that the roads had been closed due to rising insecurity in the area.
However, the Katsina State leadership of NURTW has distanced itself from the statement, stating that the local chairman acted unilaterally without consulting the state office or relevant authorities.
Katsina State NURTW Chairman, Alhaji Musa Garba Yandoma, confirmed that Malam Aminu Usman has been suspended from his position pending the outcome of an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the release of the misleading statement.
“We received no directive from the government or security agencies. The action taken by the Dutsinma branch chairman was against the union’s code of conduct. He acted without consultation, which led to public confusion,” Alhaji Yandoma said.
Dr Zango further explained that while some areas in the state are experiencing security challenges, the reports regarding the roads in question were exaggerated. He noted that the government has maintained regular security surveillance and checkpoints along the Dutsinma road to safeguard lives and property.
“Closing this road would trigger fear and disrupt both economic and social activities for the communities that rely on it. It would also hinder emergency services such as ambulances and fire trucks from reaching areas in need,” he added.
The government stated that a full investigation will be conducted to uncover the source and motives behind the false announcement and assured that anyone found culpable would face legal consequences.
In conclusion, the Katsina State Government urged residents to disregard the rumour, go about their normal activities without fear, and rely only on information from official sources.
“This road is more than a transport route it symbolises unity and the progress of our people. The government will continue to safeguard lives, property, and all essential infrastructure across the state,” Dr Zango said.
