The Plateau State Government has sounded the alarm over the deteriorating condition of five major Federal Government bridges in the southern part of the state, warning that they are on the brink of collapse and require urgent intervention.
During an inspection tour led by Commissioner for Works, Hon. Joshua Ubandoma Laven, officials identified the affected bridges as the Longvel Bridge along Shendam–Yelwa Ibi Road in Shendam LGA; Kufai Yelwa Bridge on Yelwa–Garkawa Road in Shendam LGA; Bakwai Bridge along Langtang–Zamko–Garkawa Road in Langtang North LGA; the Bailey bridges along Langtang–Wase Road in Langtang North LGA; the Jarmai Bridge along Dengi–Bashar Road in Kanam LGA; and the Bauchi Road Bridge in Jos North LGA.
Laven explained that the Longvel Bridge, built decades ago, has suffered extensive damage from repeated flooding. He recalled that severe flooding in 2012 undermined its foundation, prompting the Federal Government to construct a relief culvert. However, subsequent floods between 2014 and 2018 further weakened the structure, leading to subsidence and exposing bridge piles. Sand excavation downstream has worsened the instability. He warned that the bridge has outlived its serviceable age and requires complete demolition and reconstruction.
The Commissioner noted that the Kufai Yelwa Bridge and the Langtang–Wase Bailey bridges have already collapsed, while others remain in critical condition. He stressed that with the rainy season approaching, the situation could worsen, urging the Federal Government to deploy emergency response teams and provide funds for rehabilitation before March and April.
Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, emphasized the economic importance of the bridges, describing the Longvel Bridge as a vital link connecting the North Central region to the South-East and North-East. She warned that collapse would disrupt food supply chains, isolate communities, and jeopardize commerce and regional connectivity.
Both commissioners appealed to the Federal Government to act swiftly, noting that the burden is beyond the state’s capacity. They stressed that southern Plateau, a major food-producing hub, depends on these bridges for transporting agricultural produce nationwide.
This warning comes as Plateau State continues rural road construction projects to boost economic activities and enhance security, but officials insist that federal intervention is urgently needed to avert disaster.
By Golok Nanmwa, Jos
