Vehicular movement has been brought to a standstill along the Ilorin–Igbeti Federal Highway in Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State following the collapse of the Moro Bridge, cutting off a key transport route and stranding commuters.
The bridge reportedly gave way around 5 a.m. on Thursday after a heavy-duty truck drove across it, leading to a major disruption along the busy corridor. Motorists and residents described the incident as a significant setback, noting that it has hampered commercial activities, delayed the movement of goods and services, and driven up transportation costs.
A trader, Kafayat, who spoke on the situation, said the collapse had taken a toll on businesses and commuters. “This development has negatively affected economic activities, causing delays and increasing the cost of transportation,” she said.
In response, the Kwara State Government announced an immediate diversion of traffic to reduce the impact on road users. The Commissioner for Works, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, in a statement issued through the ministry’s Press Secretary, urged motorists to remain cautious while using alternative routes.
According to him, the government is collaborating with federal authorities to manage the situation. He added that engineers have already been deployed to carry out urgent palliative works on diversion routes to ease congestion and improve traffic flow.
Olododo also disclosed that construction is ongoing on a new Moro Bridge located close to the collapsed structure, following assurances from federal authorities. He noted that traffic officials have been directed to work with transport unions to ensure orderly movement, while appealing to the public for patience.
The Moro Bridge, situated between Oko-Olowo/Mandala in Ilorin West and Asa Local Government Area, is a critical link between Kwara and Oyo states. The ageing colonial-era Bailey bridge has undergone several repairs over the years due to persistent structural challenges.
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