From Olanrewaju Lawal, Birnin Kebbi
The Kebbi State Governor, Dr Nasir Idris, has put machinery in motion to revive the famous Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival through the deployment of professionals on water engineering to design a concept that would allow uninterrupted flow of water to the “Matan Fada River”, venue of the fishing festival.
It could be recalled that an embankment constructed at Gurbin Manu at Garin Dabai in Augie Local Government Area had obstructed the natural water inflow into the river.
It was gathered that,this had led to the shrinking of Matan Fada River and the water ways passing through communities in seven local government areas which have affected irrigation for farming, fishing and animal consumption.
The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, had complained to the state government, which prompted a swift action from the governor, who dispatched four commissioners under the leadership of the Commissioner for Environment, Alhaji Musa Muhammad Tungulawa alongside the Magajin Garin Kabi, Engineer Aminu Musa, who represented the Emir of Argungu to the river for inspection to provide permanent solution.
In a chat with newsmen at the site, the Magajin Gari Kabi, said the problem was beyond the capacity of the Emirate Council and appealed for immediate intervention from Kebbi State Government.
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.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Environment, Alhaji Musa Muhammad Tungulawa, affirmed the commitment of Governor Nasir Idris, to provide long time remedy to mitigate the diversion of the river by restoring uninterrupted flow of water to the tributary serving all communities.
He made it clear that Governor Idris was deeply concerned about their plight, which he had vowed to redress.