The Katsina State Government has denied the closure of the Dutsinma-Turare-Yantumaki-Mararrabar Kankara road due to security challenges in the area.

This is even as the Dutsinma council branch chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Aminu Usman, has been suspended for signing and issuing a release that motorists should stop plying the road.

The state Commissioner for Information and Culture, Bala Zango, made this known while speaking with newsmen yesterday.

Zango said the state government did not order the closure of the road and that the NURTW chairman did not consult with relevant stakeholders before issuing the release.

“Katsina State Government and security agencies in the state wish to categorically state that the road remains open and has not been closed.

“Motorists and the general public are requested to disregard this misinformation and to dispel any further rumours.

“Dutsinma-Yantumaki-Mararrabar Kankara road is still safe and accessible to motorists, against the over-exaggerated security situation along the road.

“Government has, since many years back, mounted security checkpoints for the safety of commuters and the public along the road.

“Katsina State Government is doing everything possible to ensure that it improves security along the road.

“The road is a vital transportation route that connects several communities and facilitates the movement of goods and people.

“Closing this road would have a significant impact on the local economy, as it would disrupt the flow of goods and services and make it difficult for residents to commute to work or access essential services.

“Additionally, the Dutsinma to Yantumaki road is a key route for emergency services, such as ambulances and fire trucks, to reach remote areas.

“Closing this road would jeopardize the ability of emergency services to respond quickly to emergencies and potentially put lives at more risk than the security situation the said letter speculated.

“Katsina State Government and security agencies in the state are committed to maintaining security not only along this route but in all areas affected by insecurity in the state.

“Katsina State Government is resolute in ensuring that all roads in the state remain accessible through targeted interventions.

“Furthermore, the misinformation about the closure of the Dutsinma to Yantumaki road was fueled by misinformation and calculated attempts to undermine government efforts in containing security challenges in the state.

“Moreover, the Dutsinma-Yantumaki-Mararrabar Kankara road is a public asset; it remains open and accessible.

“Government has a responsibility to ensure that public infrastructure is well managed and accessible to all residents, and closing the road would go against this principle.

“Additionally, closing the Dutsinma to Yantumaki road could have negative implications for businesses and commercial activities in the area.

“Furthermore, the road is a symbol of connectivity and unity in the region, as it brings together people from different communities and facilitates social interaction.

“Closing the road would create division and isolation among residents and undermine the sense of community that is essential for social cohesion and harmony.”

He said the decision to keep the road open is based on several important considerations, including its role in facilitating transportation, emergency services, economic development, and community connectivity.

“While concerns about its safety are valid, closing the road is not the solution and would have far-reaching negative consequences for residents and businesses in the area.

“Government has directed a proper investigation into this misleading information, and anybody found wanting in relation to the false speculations would face the wrath of the law.”