Residents Lament as Collapsed Bridge Kills Three in Akwa Ibom

Residents of Ikot Mfon in Etinan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State have urged the state government to rebuild the collapsed Ikot Mfon/Ndiya bridge, which has reportedly claimed at least three lives, including schoolchildren.

Originally constructed by the military in 1970, the bridge serves as a vital route for traders transporting agricultural goods. However, it collapsed in 2011 and has remained in disrepair ever since.

A community leader, Ekaette Akpan, speaking on behalf of the village head, said the bridge’s collapse has left residents completely isolated, severely disrupting both social and economic activities in the area.

“Since the bridge collapsed, more than three people have died while trying to cross, including schoolchildren. Apart from the loss of lives, our economic activities have also suffered because this road and bridge are the only access points to Ndiya, which connects us to Eket, Oron, and other parts of Akwa Ibom,” Akpan said.

Flanked by the deputy village head, Obong Safety Tony, Akpan appealed to Governor Umo Eno for urgent intervention to prevent further casualties.

Meanwhile, Uduak Ekpo-Ufot, the member representing Etinan State Constituency in the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly, raised the issue before the House in July 2023, calling for immediate government action.

In his motion, Ekpo-Ufot highlighted that the bridge, built around 1970, had become a dangerous hazard, forcing residents to rely on unsafe boats to access education, healthcare, and other essential services in nearby communities.

He warned that without urgent intervention, more lives could be lost, and economic hardship in the area would worsen.