Speaking during the visit, the State Director of NOA, Malam Muhammad Nasiru Karofi said the sensitization became necessary following complaints from motorists over the dangerous manner in which cart operators use major roads.
He said, “We received complaints that cart users, locally known as ‘tarkon shanu’, who transport farm produce, now ply major motor roads and have become a serious hazard. This situation has become complex and risky, leading to severe road accidents.”
The Director expressed concern over the practice of operating carts at night without illumination.
“Some of them operate deep into the night without lights or reflective signs to warn oncoming drivers. This further heightens the threat to lives and property on our roads,” he said.
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The NOA also used the visit to sensitize the public on other national programmes.
“We also used the opportunity to call on registered voters who have not collected their Permanent Voter Cards to go to INEC offices to collect them,” he stated.
He added, “We are also urging residents to enrol in the Kebbi State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency, KECHEMA, scheme, so that they can access medical care without financial hardship.”
Responding, the District Head of Gwadangaji, Alhaji Umar Ahmed, commended the Agency for engaging traditional institutions in its advocacy.
He said, “We welcome the NOA delegation and appreciate this important step of consulting community leaders on issues affecting our people.”
The traditional ruler disclosed that he has directed his village heads to take immediate action.
“I have directed all my Hakimai to make public announcements and warn cart users to stop plying motor roads in order to prevent accidents,” he said.
Alhaji Umar further assured the Agency of the continued support of the traditional institution in disseminating government policies and programmes at the grassroots.
