The Emir of Rano, Alhaji Muhammad Isah Umaru, has formally requested the Rano Local Government Council to relocate street traders operating in the vicinity of the Rano General Hospital, citing severe public safety hazards.
In a statement issued by the Rano Zonal Information Officer, Abdullahi Musa Gyadi Gyadi, the Emir conveyed his concerns during a traditional Sallah homage visit to the local government secretariat. He argued that the persistent presence of traders creates critical congestion, leading to recurring traffic incidents that endanger patients, medical staff, residents, and visitors. “The congestion and frequent accidents pose an unacceptable risk to the hospital’s operations and community safety,” the Emir stated, urging the council to “allocate a designated space where traders can be relocated away from the hospital premises.”
The appeal highlights a common urban planning challenge where informal commercial activity conflicts with essential public service infrastructure. The hospital area’s narrow access routes are reportedly obstructed, complicating emergency vehicle movement and pedestrian flow.
Responding to the appeal, the Chairman of Rano Local Government, Malam Muhammad Naziru Ya’u Rano, was represented by Council Speaker Alhaji Ahmad Jibrin. Jibrin assured that the council would examine the issue and deliberate on measures to mitigate accidents near the health facility. He also announced a significant regional security initiative, revealing plans for a joint security task force involving Rano, Bunkure, and Kibiya Local Government Councils. This collaboration aims to bolster safety across the councils, particularly in response to rising incidents of kidnapping and other criminal activities in parts of Kano State.
The Speaker further expressed sympathy for the people of the Rano Emirate following the recent abduction of the Kibiya Local Government Council Secretary, praying for his safe return. This incident underscores the broader security context within which local governance challenges, such as market relocation, are being addressed.
The Emir’s request places the Rano Local Government Council at a crossroads, balancing economic livelihoods with public health and safety imperatives. The proposed trader relocation and the inter-council security pact represent coordinated administrative efforts to improve urban order and community resilience. Implementation of these measures will be closely watched by residents and stakeholders concerned with sustainable development and security in the region.
