Yobe communities hail Barr Tumsah over construction of pedestrian bridge
Residents of Rugan Fulani, Dubai 1, and neighbouring communities in Potiskum Local Government Area of Yobe State have expressed endless gratitude to Barrister Kashim Musa Tumsah for his intervention following the destruction of the town’s bridge by erosion.
Barrister Tumsah, a distinguished lawyer and diplomat, single-handedly sponsored the construction of a much-needed pedestrian bridge that will connect these communities, which have long been plagued by the devastating effects of flooding.
For years, the only access route for these communities has been in a state of disrepair, particularly during the rainy season when it becomes virtually impassable.
This has had severe consequences, hindering children’s access to education, limiting residents’ ability to procure food, and even tragically leading to loss of lives as people attempt to navigate the perilous conditions.
Mr Hassan B. Joda, Chairman of the Construction Committee, recounted the community’s struggles, stating, “This road has been in a deplorable state for years. It has caused damage to lives and property.
According to him, during the rainy season, the road becomes nearly impassable; at such times, children are often unable to go to school, and even access to food becomes difficult.”
“Driven by desperation, the community had begun to tax itself to fund repairs through communal efforts. It was a social media post highlighting their plight that caught the attention of Barrister Kashim Tumsah.
“That post caught the attention of a philanthropist, Barrister Kashim Tumsah, who responded positively and took up the responsibility of funding the project and donated money,” an elated Mr. Joda explained.
“We hope that amount will be enough to complete the project, although we are just getting started.”
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The community leader expressed profound gratitude and extended an appeal to other well-meaning individuals and organisations to follow Barrister Tumsah’s exemplary lead.
“Our appeal is open to everyone willing to help. We are not limiting this call to a particular individual. Anyone who can support us is welcome.”
The palpable relief and joy within the communities were evident. “I am not just happy, I am overwhelmed with joy, as you can see from the expressions of the community members, they are all smiling.
“According to him, this issue has disturbed their peace for a long time, now they are optimistic that their problem is coming to an end,” Mr. Joda added.
Malam Usaini Garba, Mai Unguwa of Dubai, poignantly described the dire situation before Barrister Tumsah’s intervention.
“We are facing a serious problem as a result of gully erosion caused by flooding in this area, which disconnects us from the neighbouring community. From different locations, we lost the lives of some children in their attempt to cross the temporary bridge constructed by the local communities.
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“I could remember a man who lost three of his children while crossing the bridge, and another man lost his wife as a result of flooding.”
He further highlighted the difficulties faced by pregnant women and those needing to conduct business, often forcing them to take a lengthy 15-kilometre detour.
“Now we are appreciating Kashim Tumsah, a good citizen of the state who identified our plight and came to our rescue. This is because before him, nobody ever came to our assistance.”
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