By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
Residents of Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, have called on Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to urgently repair the failed street lights across the city, as darkness has reportedly led to frequent night accidents and a surge in criminal activities, including motorcycle snatching.
The street lights, installed by former Governor Yahaya Bello’s administration, were meant to enhance security and beautify the capital city.
However, residents say most of them stopped working less than two years after installation, leaving many streets and major junctions in complete darkness.
Motorists and pedestrians alike have decried the rising number of night-time road accidents, especially along Ganaja Junction, Zone 8, Lokongoma, and Old Market Road, due to poor visibility.
A commercial driver, Mr. Sani Abdullahi, told NationalWatch Tv that “the darkness has made it dangerous to drive at night. Many vehicles have collided because drivers cannot see clearly.”
Residents also accused the contractor who handled the project of supplying substandard materials, which they said failed shortly after the project was commissioned.
“The lights did not even last up to two years. The government must probe this and ensure quality in future works,” said a resident, Mr. Ibrahim Ali.
Another resident, Mrs. Grace Onuh, appealed to the governor to act quickly before more lives are lost.
“The street lights were a big relief when they were working, but now, the roads are unsafe again. We need light to feel secure,” she added.
Beyond accidents, residents said the darkness has emboldened criminals, leading to a rise in robbery and motorcycle snatching at night.
Hoodlums are said to operate freely in poorly lit areas such as Paparanda Square, Crusher, and the Post Office axis, attacking riders and stealing their motorcycles.
A tricycle operator, Musa Mohammed, recounted a recent incident where one of his colleagues was attacked and his motorcycle snatched at gunpoint along the Old Market road.
“They took advantage of the darkness. If there was light, it would not have been possible,” he said.
Shop owners and traders also lamented that business activities have reduced drastically as customers now avoid staying out late for fear of being attacked.
“Lokoja used to be lively at night, but not anymore,” said a trader at Stadium Road.
Community leaders have urged Governor Ododo to investigate the streetlight project, identify those responsible for its failure, and ensure the immediate restoration of power across the city.
They emphasized that the lights are not only for beautification but are critical for security and safety.
Residents, however, expressed confidence that Governor Ododo, known for his commitment to infrastructure and security, will respond swiftly to their concerns and restore light to Lokoja’s streets.
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