Residents of Ikot Mfon in the Etinan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State are urgently calling on the state government to reconstruct the collapsed Ikot Mfon/Ndiya bridge, which has resulted in the deaths of at least three individuals, including schoolchildren.
The bridge, originally built during the Nigerian Civil War, is a vital link for motorists and traders transporting agricultural products. Community leader Ekaette Akpan, representing the village head, expressed deep concern over the situation, stating that the bridge’s collapse in 2011 has severely disrupted social and economic activities in the area.
“Since the bridge collapsed, more than three people have died while trying to cross, including schoolchildren. Our economic activities have also suffered greatly, as this road and bridge are the only access points to Ndiya, connecting us to Eket, Oron, and other parts of Akwa Ibom,” Akpan lamented.
The community has been forced to rely on unsafe boats to reach essential services such as education and healthcare. Uduak Ekpo-Ufot, a member of the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly, had previously raised concerns about the bridge, labeling it a death trap and urging immediate government action to prevent further casualties.
Community leaders are appealing to Governor Umo Eno for urgent intervention to address this critical infrastructure issue and prevent additional loss of life.
