Residents stranded as Bridge linking 20 communities in Kwara, Oyo collapses

Vehicular movement has been severely disrupted along the Ilorin–Igbeti Federal Highway in Kwara State following the collapse of the Moro Bridge in Asa Local Government Area, cutting off a key transport corridor and stranding commuters.

The bridge reportedly caved in around 5 a.m. on Thursday after a heavy-duty truck passed over it, triggering widespread disruption to traffic and commercial activities along the route.

Motorists and traders expressed frustration over the incident, warning of rising transportation costs and delays in the movement of goods. A trader, Kafayat, described the situation as a major setback for businesses dependent on the corridor.

In response, the Kwara State Government announced immediate traffic diversion measures to ease congestion and minimise hardship for road users. Commissioner for Works, Engr. Abdulquawiy Olododo, said the state was working with federal authorities to manage the situation.

“The collapse occurred in the early hours of today after a heavy-duty truck passed over the bridge, resulting in a major disruption along the route,” he said.

Olododo added that engineers had been deployed to commence urgent palliative work on alternative routes, while traffic managers have been directed to coordinate with transport unions to ensure orderly movement.

He also disclosed that construction is already ongoing on a new Moro Bridge located a few metres from the collapsed structure, offering some relief for long-term restoration of the route.

The Moro Bridge serves as a critical link between Kwara and Oyo State, connecting major trade routes and facilitating movement toward the Benin Republic corridor. Its collapse is expected to have immediate economic implications, particularly for inter-state commerce and logistics.

Authorities have urged motorists to remain patient and exercise caution while using diversion routes as efforts continue to restore connectivity.

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