The Katsina State Government has suspended Aminu Usman, the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) chairman in Dutsinma, after he issued a false alert claiming the federal road linking Dutsinma, Yantumaki, and Mararabar Kankara was closed due to insecurity. The announcement triggered panic among residents and road users when it spread rapidly across social media platforms.
In a joint press briefing, the state government and the Katsina NURTW leadership described the statement as misleading and unauthorised. Officials clarified that the road in question remains open, accessible, and safe for travel. The clarification came through a formal statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Culture, Bala Zango, alongside the Katsina NURTW Chairman, Musa Yandoma.
The statement stressed that Aminu Usman acted without proper consultation with the state union office or relevant authorities. The union disowned the message, calling it unreasonable and not reflective of the facts on the ground. Authorities asked the public to ignore the misinformation and advised against spreading further rumours.
Government officials reassured commuters that existing security measures along the route remain in place. Checkpoints and patrols have long been established to ensure public safety. They also warned that any closure of the road would significantly disrupt the local economy, restricting movement and access to essential services.
Usman’s suspension was described as a disciplinary step meant to prevent future incidents that could cause unnecessary fear or public disorder.
