A bridge constructed in 1970, after the Nigeria civil war at Ikot Mfon community in Etinan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, has collapsed, cutting off the community from the rest of the state. .
Residents of the community have therefore, sent a passionate appeal to the state government to come to their aid, and ensure the reconstruction of the collapsed Ikot Mfon/Ndiya Bridge
A community leader, Mr. Ekaette Akpan, while conducting our reporter round the collapsed bridge, said the it was constructed by the military during the civil war, and remains the only bridge used by motorists to transport agricultural produce from the area.
Akpan, who represented the village head, added that more than three people, including school children have lost their lives, while trying to cross the bridge.
He said since the collapse of the bridge linking the community to other parts of the state in 2011, things have become increasingly difficult for the residents of the community.
According to him, residents of the community have been completely cut off from the rest of the world, resulting in the disruption of both social interactions, and business activities.
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“Since the bridge collapsed in 2011, more than three persons have lost their lives. Apart from that, we have also lost economic activities because this road, and bridge is the only access point to Ndiya, from where one can access Eket, Oron, and other parts of Akwa Ibom State
“We therefore, want to passionately appeal to Goveenor Umo Eno, to take action, and save further lives” Akpan said
He disclosed that the member representing Etinan State Constituency, at the state House of Assembly, Uduak Ekpo-Ufot, in July 2023, presented the issue of the collapsed bridge, and the road, along with the need for immediate government intervention, before the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.
Ekpo-Ufot, in his motion, had noted that the bridge, built around 1970, had caused the loss of lives, while the residents of Ikot Mfon Village have been cut off from their neighbours in Ndiya, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area.
