By Residents of Ikot Mfon, a quiet community in Etinan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, have called on Governor Umo Eno to urgently rebuild the collapsed Ikot Mfon/Ndiya Bridge, which has reportedly claimed at least three lives.
According to reports, the bridge was originally built by the military during the Nigerian civil war to help soldiers cross the area safely. For decades, it has remained the only route for motorists, trucks, and pedestrians moving goods and farm produce to nearby markets.
Speaking on behalf of the village head, community leader Mr. Ekaette Akpan explained on Tuesday that more than three residents, including school children, have died while attempting to cross the dangerous bridge.
Akpan, alongside the community’s deputy village head, Obong Safety Tony, described the situation as a long-standing tragedy. He lamented that since the bridge collapsed in 2011, life has become extremely difficult for the people of Ikot Mfon.
Without the bridge, farmers struggle to transport their crops to market, school children face dangerous crossings, and essential services have become harder to access. Residents fear the situation will only worsen if the government fails to act.
The community is now appealing directly to Governor Umo Eno, urging him to prioritize the bridge reconstruction and save lives. “We cannot continue to live like this,” Akpan said. “The government must come to our rescue before more lives are lost.”
