The Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Ikot Abasi, has drawn attention to the deteriorating state of the Atan Ikpe Bridge in Edemaya Clan, urging urgent but measured government intervention to avert further hardship for residents and road users.
The concern formed part of a communiqué issued at the end of the 34th Annual Diocesan Synod of the church, held from April 23 to April 26, 2026, at Methodist Church Nigeria, Atan Ikpe.
Presided over by the Diocesan Bishop, the Right Reverend Usen S. Akpanenua, alongside the Lay President, Elder Engr Uwem Akpan, and the Synod Secretary, Very Rev Dr Uwem Ekanem, the gathering brought together clergy and laity from across the Diocese.
In the communiqué, the Synod specifically praised ongoing development efforts by the Akwa Ibom State Government as encapsulated in the ARISE Agenda, but noted that the condition of the Atan Ikpe Bridge has become a source of concern to the people, as it continues to affect movement, commerce and daily life in the area.
The church appealed to the state government to give attention to the bridge in order to ease transportation challenges and support economic activities within Edemaya Clan and the wider Ikot Abasi Local Government Area.
The Synod also raised concerns over the prevailing economic hardship in the country, pointing to the rising cost of food, transportation and basic services, and called on government at all levels to take practical steps to address the situation.
It further decried the poor electricity supply in Ikot Abasi despite the presence of power infrastructure in the area, urging improved distribution to boost local productivity.
On national issues, while commending the Federal Government for the ongoing reforms, the church called for peace, justice and unity, urging leaders to remain accountable and responsive to the needs of the people. It also advised political actors to embrace issue based engagement as the country approaches another election cycle.
The Synod commended the Prelate of Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr Oliver Ali Abba, for his leadership and for setting a timely theme for the conference, while also noting the significance of the Methodist Theological Institute, Ibaka, as a step towards strengthening ministerial training.
Meanwhile, the communiqué was jointly signed by the Synod leadership, who reiterated the church’s commitment to constructive engagement and peaceful advocacy on matters affecting society.
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