Residents Laud KMT for Bridge Project in Yobe Community
By Baba Dan’Iya
For over eight years, residents of Rugan Fulani, Dubai 1, and neighboring communities in Potiskum Local Government Area of Yobe State have risked their lives crossing a dilapidated makeshift bridge.
The unstable wooden structure, supported by car tyres, has been the only link for children, women, and the elderly to access schools, markets, and healthcare facilities.
Tragically, several lives have been lost, particularly during the rainy season, when flooding renders the bridge even more dangerous.
After years of appeals to authorities yielded no results, hope emerged when Barrister Kashim Tumash (KMT), a legal practitioner and diplomat, stepped in to sponsor the construction of a safer, more durable pedestrian bridge.
Malam Usaini Garba Maiunguwa of Dubai 1 recounted the hardships faced by residents:
“Flooding cuts us off from neighboring communities. Our children struggle to attend school, and we have lost lives—including a man who lost three children and another who lost his wife. No one came to our aid until Barrister Tumash intervened.”
Malama Adama Saleh, an elderly resident, expressed relief:
“Politicians only remember us during elections. Now, our prayers have been answered. We are grateful to Kashim Tumash for deploying workers and materials. We pray for his success.”
Malam Abubakar Abba of Rugan Fulani added:
“This bridge is a lifeline. Without it, children miss school, the sick can’t reach hospitals, and businesses suffer. We complained for years with no response. Tumash’s intervention has brought us joy.”
Mr. Hassan Joda, Chairman of the Construction Committee, explained how communal efforts and social media appeals led to Tumash’s intervention.
“We began taxing ourselves to raise funds, but it wasn’t enough. When I shared photos online, Barrister Tumash responded immediately. We hope others will join him in supporting the project.”
While work is yet to fully commence, the community has appealed to the Yobe State Government and other philanthropists to ensure timely completion.
Residents are optimistic that the new bridge will end years of suffering and restore safe passage for generations to come.
