A legal practitioner, Hamza Dantani, has appealed to the Nigerian Air Force to reopen the blocked section of the Kano-Maiduguri Expressway opposite Gomari Way, Maiduguri, which has remained closed since 2015.
The plea was contained in a letter dated December 16, 2024, and addressed to the Chief of Air Staff by Kayode Ajulo & Co. Chambers, reports The PUNCH.
The letter highlighted the adverse effects of the prolonged closure on motorists and residents. Dantani described the road as a critical link connecting major parts of Maiduguri and northern Nigeria, including access to Borno State University, the 777 and 1000 Housing Estates, and communities like Gomari and Moranti.
The letter read in part, “I wish to bring to your attention the dire consequences of the continued closure of one section of the dualised Kano-Maiduguri Expressway adjacent Gomari Way opposite Barwee Hotel along the Nigerian Air Force Barracks, Maiduguri, Borno State.
“This road, blocked for nine years, is of immense importance to the daily activities of citizens. Its closure has caused significant inconvenience and has far-reaching negative impacts on the lives of motorists and residents.”*
Dantani acknowledged the initial security concerns that led to the road’s closure but argued that the situation has since improved, with no reported attacks in the area for several years.
He added, The prolonged restriction is no longer necessary. Its continuation has resulted in congestion on alternative routes and increased road accidents. This week alone, there was yet another tragic accident due to the blocked section.”
Recounting a personal loss, Dantani said, “Recently, my own family was affected when I lost my uncle, Garba Umar Abdullahi, a former staff of Borno Express, in a tragic accident on this road. Police reports indicate that many accidents have occurred due to the blockage of an entire lane.”
The lawyer urged the Air Force to consider reopening the road to ease traffic and reduce the risk of accidents, adding that such a step would restore convenience and safety for residents and motorists.
