Newly installed solar streetlights collapse after rainfall in Akwanga

Several newly installed solar-powered streetlights have collapsed along the Keffi Bypass in Akwanga Local Government Area of Nasarawa State following rainfall on Saturday, October 31, 2026.

The incident, which left multiple streetlight poles sprawled across the roadside, has sparked concerns among residents and motorists over the quality, durability and safety of the public infrastructure project.

Eyewitnesses told our correspondent that the streetlights, which were recently installed, reportedly gave way during the rainfall, raising questions about their structural integrity and ability to withstand ordinary weather conditions.

Some residents have attributed the incident to the alleged use of substandard construction materials, particularly questioning the quality of the poles and the depth and strength of the foundations on which they were mounted.

They argued that streetlights properly installed in line with standard engineering specifications should be capable of withstanding normal seasonal rainfall and associated weather conditions.

“The way these poles fell with just one rainfall shows that substandard materials may have been used. This is not just about wind or rain; it is about the quality of work,” a resident, who requested anonymity, said.

The residents have consequently called on the relevant government authorities and the contracting firm responsible for the project to carry out an immediate technical assessment, replace the fallen poles with materials that meet the required standards, and ensure proper supervision of the installation work.

They also warned that leaving the collapsed structures unattended could pose safety risks to road users and other members of the public.

As of the time of filing this report, attempts to reach the contractor responsible for the project for comments were unsuccessful.

Meanwhile, residents have urged the government to strengthen quality assurance and monitoring mechanisms for public infrastructure projects, stressing that contractors must be held accountable for delivering durable, safe and value-driven projects.

They maintained that public infrastructure should be judged not merely by its completion but by its ability to serve the people safely and effectively over time.