Bad roads aiding insecurity in Nigeria – Sultan of Sokoto

BY ANKELI EMMANUEL, Sokoto

The Sultan of Sokoto and President General, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar 111 has said that the deplorable state of Nigerian roads are aiding activities of bandits and kidnappers.

The Sultan, who made the observation in Illela local government of Sokoto State on Thursday when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu flagged off the 1068KM Sokoto-Badagry super highway, also urged the president to consider construction of railways in states that have none, and the revival of rail transportation.

“Bandits and other bad elements in Nigeria are taking advantage of our bad roads, hence the need to expedite action on the roads,” the monarch stressed.

The Sultan further urged President Tinubu to pay attention to the plight of Nigerians, adding that the welfare of the people should be a top priority as well.

“All road projects are very important but the welfare of Nigerians should equally be considered very seriously, as it is very important for leaders to also see to the welfare of their people,” he pointed out.

While noting that he will personally monitor the Sokoto-Badagry road project, the Sultan also added that the Sokoto Zaria road is equally very important to avoid  bandits taking advantage of the bad road to kidnap innocent road users.

“Empower the state governors to ensure that the roads that pass through their states are completed in good time.

“And construction of railways through the length and breath of Nigeria will preserve the lifespan of the roads,” he counselled, adding that Sokoto deserves a rail line connecting it to other parts of Nigeria.