Railway project sparks protest as Kano residents close road

Residents of Jajira community in Kano State have staged a determined two-day protest, occupying the site of the ongoing Abuja–Kaduna–Kano–Maradi railway construction. Their action stems from allegations that the project has effectively severed their primary access roads without providing any viable alternatives, severely disrupting daily life, trade, and access to essential services.

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Initially, they promised to construct a flyover to allow us to pass. Unfortunately, later on, they didn’t.

The community, which serves as a vital link for several surrounding areas, has seen its long-established routes blocked by the railway alignment. This has caused significant hardship, as decades of established transportation patterns are now rendered unusable. Residents expressed frustration over the unfulfilled promise of a flyover, which was initially presented as a solution to ensure continued free movement.

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This town is over 300 years old. People have been living here for generations. This road is very important to us, and blocking it without a flyover or alternative route is affecting our daily lives.

The protest, which saw dozens of residents staying at the construction site, cooking, and sleeping there, highlights the depth of their grievance. They are appealing urgently for government intervention, specifically demanding the construction of the promised flyover. The community has issued a stark warning: failure to address their concerns will result in a boycott of the 2027 elections, demonstrating their resolve to seek redress through political means if necessary. The Kano State Police Command has intervened to restore calm and initiate dialogue.

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We are appealing to the government to construct a flyover for us so that people can move freely. If they don’t build it, we will not participate in the 2027 elections.