Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has raised the alarm over the deplorable state of a major connecting road in Mkpat-Enin Local Government Area of the state popularly called, 42-Ikot Akpaden road which is linking the state-owned University, Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot Akpaden.
In a motion sponsored by the member representing Mkpat-Enin state constituency, Hon. Uwem Peter-Ita, during the plenary on Thursday apart from 42 Ikot Akpanden road, other roads badly affected are Mkpat-Enin urban, Ikot Akata-Ikot Obio Akai axis of the road.
Hon. Imoh-ita had informed the House that the road which is over 30 years now needs urgent intervention, arguing that; “the 42-Ikot Akpaden road was constructed in the ’70s and over 30 years after, the road has experienced high traffic volume beyond its intended capacity which has led to its deterioration over time, bearing in mind that the design and engineering standard that was followed during the roads initial construction do not align with current modern safety and sustainability guidelines.”
The lawmaker submitted that the road being a vital artery connecting the community to neighbouring areas like the Akwa Ibom State University, its current deplorable state has negatively affected residents, businesses and the student community.
He urged the Ministry of Works and Fire Service, to take urgent action in initiating a comprehensive evaluation with a view to assessing the current condition of 42-Ikot Akpaden road to “ascertain specific need of the road, and to undertake immediate construction and reconstruction of the road to improve the overall living condition and economic prospects of the people of Mkpat-Enin in particular and Akwa Ibom as a whole.”
He lamented that the said road which is a major link from Mkpat-Enin Local Government Council, connecting other adjourning communities to the popular Ukam market, Akwa Ibom State University, Ikot Akpaden community and the neighbouring Eastern Obolo Local Government Area, has progressively become a death trap to motorists and commuters resulting in serious damages to property and vehicles.
Meanwhile, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong has referred the matter to the House Committee on Works and Fire Service.
