THE Army has restored security along the Sheme-Kankara road, a 34-kilometre stretch once feared for its insecurity and regarded as one of the most dangerous roads in the state, also known as a key exit route between Katsina and Zamfara States.
A team of journalists conducted an on-the-ground tour of the route and confirmed the deployment of army personnel, police and allied security agencies along strategic points of the road after almost 30 months.
Our correspondent, who was part of the tour, observed that military outposts were visibly mounted at strategic locations on the road, signalling renewed government presence and efforts to reclaim the road from criminal elements.
The Sheme-Kankara road, which connected several rural communities such as Ruwa Godiya and Sheme, had long been deserted by motorists due to persistent security threats for over two and half year.
Despite the improved situation, correspondents observed that the road witnesses low patronage and remains largely abandoned, raising concerns among residents and local authorities.
Brigadier General Omopariola, Commander of the 17 Brigade in Katsina, confirmed that intensified military activities have led to significant improvements in safety along the route.
He said: ”Motorists and traders should begin using the road more frequently to boost commercial activities and support ongoing stabilization efforts.
“The road is now safe and our men are fully on the ground. We encourage citizens to make use of it to restore its economic value.”
Residents, who spoke to the reporters,also appealed to the state and federal governments,for sustained security operations and increased community engagement to rebuild trust and confidence in the route.
They also called for urgent repair of the failed portions of the road to make it motorable.
