RismadarVoice Reporters
May 18, 2026
Hundreds of commuters travelling along the Ilorin–Igbeti Federal Highway in Kwara State were left stranded on Monday after severe flooding around the collapsed Moro Bridge disrupted movement and submerged several vehicles.
The incident followed an overnight rainfall that caused the Moro River to overflow its banks, cutting off access along the busy interstate route and creating significant hardship for motorists and passengers.
Witnesses said several vehicles became trapped in floodwaters, while some passengers reportedly climbed onto vehicle roofs as they waited for assistance and rescue efforts.
The affected bridge, situated between Oko-Olowo/Mandala in Ilorin West and Asa Local Government Areas, had previously collapsed on April 30 after a heavy articulated truck reportedly crossed the ageing structure. The collapse severed a major transport route linking Kwara State to neighbouring Oyo State and routes extending toward the Benin Republic border.
The temporary diversion introduced after the initial bridge failure reportedly failed to withstand Monday’s flooding, further worsening movement challenges in the area as repair works remain incomplete.
Motorists and residents expressed concerns over delays in emergency interventions, warning that conditions could deteriorate further with the rainy season expected to intensify in the coming months.
Communities around the Moro River axis also raised fears of increased flood risks, particularly during the peak rainfall period between July and August, and urged authorities to accelerate reconstruction and safety measures.
Following the earlier bridge collapse, the Kwara State Government announced traffic diversion arrangements and assured residents of immediate intervention efforts to ease transportation challenges.
The state Commissioner for Works, Abdulquawiy Olododo, had stated that the government was collaborating with relevant federal authorities to address the situation and restore normal movement along the route.
