Environmentalists in Kaduna and some microbiologists, botanists, and geologists from African Climate Reporters (ACR), are raising an alarm over the on-going destruction of historical trees along Kaduna Independence Way and the State House of Assembly axis.
A recent survey conducted by these professionals and some scientists, revealed that the alarming threat of kidnappings and banditry has driven traditional medicine practitioners away from forests
Fearing for their safety, these herbalists are now targeting the trees along major roads, cutting them for medicinal use, which has led to significant damage.
Ibrahima Yakubu, Head of Communication and Strategies for ACR, explained that many of the Mango, Mahogany, and other large trees along Kaduna Independence Way, bear plaques indicating the years they were planted and the names of those who planted them.
“These trees are not only just part of the landscape; they are living monuments, deeply intertwined with the cultural and historical fabric of the region.
“These trees enhance the beauty of Independence Road, especially during the Durbar festival, which is a symbol of unity in Northern Nigeria.
“However, nearly all the trees along this road have been targeted by local herbalists, necessitating immediate government intervention to prevent further damage,” Yakubu said.
Yakubu also emphasized the historical significance of these trees, planted by prominent figures when the British mapped out the area around Independence Road as the center of Kaduna metropolis. From Fredrick Lugard Hall to Ranchers Bees and Ahmadu Bello Stadium where these trees are named in honor of distinguished individuals, underscoring the need for their protection.
The frequent removal of parts of these trees by herbalists, he noted, has accelerated the decline of these irreplaceable natural landmarks.
Yakubu called on the Kaduna State Ministry of Environment to take proactive steps, including deploying personnel to protect the trees and launch public awareness campaigns on the importance of preserving these historical trees.
He also urged civil society organizations and other environmental NGOs to collaborate in efforts towards protecting all the trees along Kaduna Independence Road and Muhammadu Buhari Way.
The unchecked exploitation of trees for charcoal, firewood, and timber is turning once-verdant areas into desert landscapes, Yakubu warned.
Yakubu further appealed to the state government to take swift and decisive action to halt these destructive practices and preserve the historical trees that are an integral part of Kaduna’s heritage.
One of the local herbalists Interview while cutting some parts of a Trees along Independence Way Kaduna, says insecurity has become a big threat to their business, as they cannot enter forest and get some parts of the herbs to prepare local medicine