By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
An Abuja-based human rights lawyer, Barrister Hamza N. Dantani, has raised concerns over the loss of lives resulting from the prolonged closure of a section of the Kano-Maiduguri Expressway near Gomari Way, opposite Barwee Hotels, adjacent to the Nigerian Air Force Barracks in Maiduguri, Borno State.
In a letter dated December 17, 2024, addressed to the Chief of Air Staff (COAS) and copied to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Barr. Dantani painted a grim picture of the tragedies on the blocked highway, which has remained inaccessible for nine years.
As a native of Borno State from the Borno Central Senatorial District, Dantani commended the Nigerian Air Force and other military forces for their sacrifices in ensuring security during these challenging times. However, he expressed deep concern about the far-reaching consequences of the road’s closure.
He emphasized the strategic importance of the road, stating, “This road served as a crucial link between several parts of Maiduguri and Northern Nigeria, facilitating daily activities for citizens. It is also the access road to Borno State University, 777 Housing Estate, 1000 Housing Estate, and communities like Gomari and Moranti.”
While acknowledging that the road was originally closed due to security concerns following Boko Haram attacks in the area, Dantani pointed out that no attacks have been reported on the blocked section in recent years. He argued that the prolonged closure has concentrated traffic on a single accessible lane, leading to numerous accidents and fatalities.
“Recently, my family experienced a personal loss when my uncle, Abdullahi Umar, a former staff member of Borno Express, tragically died in an accident on this road. This is just one example among many, highlighting the urgent need for a balanced solution,” he lamented.
The lawyer urged the Chief of Air Staff to consider reopening the road, citing examples from other states and security locations where roads adjacent to military installations remain open to the public. “For instance, the road along the police command in Maiduguri and the road adjacent to Giwa Barracks are open to the public, with no reports of attacks. Even in Abuja, the dualized roads near the Army Headquarters and Nigerian Police Headquarters remain accessible,” he noted.
Dantani stressed that effective security measures can coexist with public access to critical infrastructure. “The reopening of this road would demonstrate that security and public convenience are not mutually exclusive,” he said.
While commending the efforts of security forces in safeguarding lives and property, the lawyer appealed to the authorities to prioritize reopening the road to prevent further loss of lives and alleviate the hardships faced by residents and motorists.
