Flooding Cuts Off Ilorin–Igbeti Highway As Moro Bridge Collapse Strands Commuters

Heavy flooding on Monday left commuters travelling along the Ilorin–Igbeti Federal Highway in Kwara State stranded following the collapse of the Moro Bridge, submerging vehicles and disrupting movement across the busy interstate route.

Several vehicles were trapped in floodwaters after an overnight downpour caused the Moro River to overflow its banks, while desperate passengers reportedly climbed onto car roofs awaiting rescue.

A source disclosed that the affected bridge is located between Oko-Olowo/Mandala in Ilorin West and Asa Local Government Areas.

The bridge had earlier collapsed on April 30 after a heavy-duty articulated truck reportedly passed over the ageing structure, cutting off a major transport link connecting Kwara State to neighbouring Oyo State and onward routes towards the Benin Republic border.

The temporary diversion promised by the state government following the bridge collapse reportedly worsened the situation after Monday’s flooding, as repair works on the bridge had yet to be completed.

Vehicles were partially submerged in the overflowing river, while stranded commuters struggled to navigate the flooded passage.

Residents and motorists expressed frustration over the delay in completing emergency intervention works at the site, warning that the situation could become more dangerous as the rainy season intensifies.

The worsening condition has heightened fears among communities around the Moro River axis, especially with peak rainfall months still ahead.

Residents warned that more severe flooding could occur in July and August if urgent measures are not taken to restore safe passage across the river.

Following the initial collapse of the bridge in April, the Kwara State Government announced traffic diversion measures and promised immediate intervention to ease the hardship faced by commuters.

The Commissioner for Works, Abdulquawiy Olododo, had explained that the government was working with federal authorities to address the situation.