The Kebbi state government has deployed professionals in water engineering to design a concept that will allow uninterrupted flow of water to the tributary to “Matan Fada River”, venue of the famous Argungu fishing festival.
Inflow of water to the spot has been stalled as a result of an embankment constructed at a location known as Gurbin Manu in Garin Dabi, Augie local government area.
Consequently, the Matan Fada River has dried up as well as the water ways passing through communities in seven local government areas with negative impact on agriculture, fishing and domestic chores including human and animal consumption.
On receipt of a letter of complaint from the Emir of Argungu on the issue, Governor Nasir Idris, dispatched four commissioners to accompany water engineers to the spot of the embankment for inspection prelude to designing appropriate concept for a permanent solution to the problem that would restore free flow of water to the tributary supplying Matan Fada river and Mala in Argungu which also extends to Dukku in the state capital, Birnin Kebbi and Bunza, emptying into River Niger.
The Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Shehu Mu’azu, the Commissioner for Water Resources, Alhaji Bello Abdullahi Kaoje, the Commissioner for Home Affairs and Security, Alhaji Sama’ila Yakubu Augie under the leadership of the Commissioner for Environment, Alhaji Musa Muhammad Tungulawa visited the scene this Wednesday, in company of the Magajin Garin Kabi, Engineer Aminu Musa who represented the Emir of Argungu.
Speaking to newsmen at the site, the Magajin Gari said the problem was beyond the capacity of the Emirate Council and appealed to the Kebbi state government for an immediate intervention.
He made it clear that the source of water emanated from Goronyo river in Sokoto State flowing to the tributary serving Argungu and several other towns and villages, but the diversion of water has affected the livelihood of hundreds of farmers, fishermen and households.
Speaking separately, the commissioners on the entourage affirmed the commitment of Governor Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, to provide long time remedy to mitigate the diversion of the river by restoring uninterrupted flow of water to the tributary serving all communities.
Previously, Ehie filed a contempt case against 25 of them at the Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt, challenging their meetings and legislative actions.
