The Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has raised concern over the ongoing removal of railway sleepers along key rail corridors in parts of the state.
Mohammed described the development as troubling and potentially harmful to the state’s economy, particularly in communities that rely on rail transport for agricultural and commercial activities.
The governor made his concerns known after reportedly observing contractors dismantling railway sleepers along corridors in Alkaleri Local Government Area and Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area while on his way to Alkaleri for a condolence visit.
He subsequently directed his Chief of Staff, Aminu Gamawa, to formally write to the Federal Ministry of Transport, seeking urgent clarification on the development.
The governor expressed concern that critical national assets were being dismantled without the knowledge or consent of the state government.
Although security personnel accompanying the contractors reportedly stated that the operation was authorised by federal authorities, Mohammed said the explanation was inadequate.
He warned that dismantling rail facilities in the affected areas could signal neglect of vital regions and undermine transportation systems that support local economies.
According to him, the railway infrastructure plays a significant role in facilitating movement of goods and people, especially in agrarian communities.
Mohammed also called for greater transparency and stronger collaboration between federal and state authorities, stressing that decisions affecting critical infrastructure should involve stakeholders and consider the impact on local communities and livelihoods.
