Heavy flooding left commuters travelling along the Ilorin–Igbeti Federal Highway in Kwara State stranded on Monday following the collapse of the Moro Bridge, submerging vehicles and disrupting movement across the busy interstate route.
Several vehicles were trapped in floodwaters as a result of the incident, which followed an overnight downpour that caused the Moro River to overflow its banks, while desperate passengers reportedly climbed onto car roofs awaiting rescue.
The affected bridge, according to a source, is located between Oko-Olowo/Mandala in Ilorin West and Asa local government areas. It had earlier collapsed on April 30 after a heavy-duty articulated truck reportedly passed over the ageing structure, cutting off a major transport link connecting Kwara State to neighbouring Oyo State and onwards routes towards the Benin Republic border.
The temporary diversion promised by the state government after the bridge collapse worsened the situation following Monday’s flooding, as the bridge repair had yet to be completed.
Vehicles were partially submerged in the overflowing river, while stranded commuters struggled to navigate the flooded passage. Residents and motorists expressed frustration over the prolonged delay in completing emergency intervention works at the site, saying the situation could become more dangerous as the rainy season intensifies.
The worsening condition has heightened fears among communities around the Moro River axis, especially with peak rainfall months still ahead. Residents warned that more severe flooding could occur in July and August if urgent measures are not taken to restore safe passage across the river.
The Kwara State Government, following the initial collapse of the bridge in April, had announced traffic diversion measures and promised immediate intervention to ease the hardship faced by commuters.
Abdulquawiy Olododo, the Commissioner for Works, had explained that the government was working with federal authorities to address the situation.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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