Suspected members of the extremist group Boko Haram have reportedly blown up a major bridge in Niger State, disrupting movement and economic activities across several communities.
The attack occurred on Sunday evening along the Wawa–Luma–Guffanti road, according to local sources.
The damaged route runs through the Kainji Lake National Park, an area where armed groups, including factions linked to Boko Haram and Ansaru, are believed to operate.
Residents say the timing of the explosion appears deliberate, coming just a day before the popular Babanna market, a key trading hub in the region.
“It happened just before Babanna market day,” a Wawa resident told reporters, noting that the destruction would significantly disrupt trading activities.
A commercial driver, Ahmed Yusuf, said the blast completely severed the road, making it impassable for vehicles.
“No car can go through—the bridge has been split into two,” he said, adding that only motorcycles are managing to navigate through the debris beneath the damaged structure.
Another resident, Abu Fudail from New Bussa, described the attack as an attempt to worsen economic hardship in the area. He noted that about 90 percent of major markets in the region rely on that road for access.
The route also serves as a strategic link connecting parts of Niger State to Kebbi State, Kontagora, and even extends toward the Benin Republic.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement as of press time. More details are expected.
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