A critical bridge connecting Jalingo to rural communities collapsed on Friday after torrential downpour. The structure sits between Yorro, Zing local government areas and parts of Adamawa State.
Heavy rainfall lasted over five hours before the Gadan-Mallam-Audu Bridge gave way. Hundreds of residents found themselves stranded on both sides of the crossing.
This marks the second time the bridge has collapsed in two years. Communities across four regions now face severe transport disruption.
Farmers, traders, students, and civil servants depend heavily on the bridge daily. It serves as the main artery for moving agricultural products to Jalingo and beyond.
Local resident Hudu Adamu told Daily Trust the infrastructure had shown warning signs for months. "Cracks appeared on the structure for several months," he said.
According to Adamu, both Yorro Local Government and state authorities received reports about the deteriorating condition. He alleged nothing was done to prevent the eventual collapse.
The bridge was originally built through efforts by Hon. Kasimu Bello Maigari, a former federal legislator.
Maigari represented Jalingo, Yorro and Zing constituency in the House of Representatives.
Community leader Bulus James has called for urgent intervention from state and federal governments. He stressed that reconstruction is necessary to restore normal commercial activities.
Goods and services movement between the regions remains paralyzed following Friday's incident. Residents say the collapse has isolated them from major commercial centres.
Officials have yet to comment on reconstruction timelines or funding arrangements. The collapse raises fresh questions about infrastructure maintenance across Taraba State.
