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By Oscar Okhifo
The Kugbo Bus Terminal in Abuja, inaugurated by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, nine months ago, has suffered structural damage after a rainstorm ripped off its roof and disrupted movement along the Nyanya–Keffi Expressway.
The incident left commuters stranded for hours as vehicular movement along the corridor was severely slowed, with many travellers caught in long delays while returning from work.
The facility, located in Abuja, had not yet been opened for public use at the time of the damage.
Since its inauguration, the terminal has reportedly remained unused, with no official explanation from the government for its non-operation, leaving the facility idle for months.
The rainstorm, which occurred on Tuesday, caused extensive destruction, with sections of the terminal’s roof completely torn off.
Debris was also scattered around the surrounding areas and parts of the expressway.
This led to a terrible congestion on one of Abuja’s busiest commuter routes, forcing motorists to navigate through restricted lanes.
The incident has since sparked reactions from residents, who questioned the quality and durability of the project.
A resident of Karu, a suburb of Abuja, Cyril Chiedu, said: “If the facility could not withstand an ordinary rainstorm, it means the contractor did a poor job.”
Another resident called for a probe into the project’s execution and cost, alleging possible favouritism in the award of the contract and demanding an independent assessment of the materials used.
Another resident, Mrs. Grace Gwillo also expressed frustration over the situation, saying: “It was left unused. Now rain has destroyed it. It is unfortunate that those in power do whatever they like without regard for the people. I have spent over two hours in this gridlock. If the structure had been properly built with quality materials, it would not have been so badly damaged.”
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident as of the time of filing this report, while the extent of the damage is still being assessed.