Residents of the Antakiti community in Osun state have voiced their distress over the hardships they are facing as a result of a collapsed bridge that previously connected their community with neighboring areas, including Osogbo, the state capital.
The collapse of the bridge at Ifesowapo Zone 1b has left the community isolated from its neighboring zones. Moreover, the bridge served as a vital link to various communities such as Mallam Tope, Aiyekale, Ota-Efun, Oke-Odo, Jesu Wa Laaye, Ori Oke Goshen, Ayeegbami, and Ore Ofe.
The residents have expressed that the collapse of the bridge has severely impacted economic activities in the area. One specific example cited is the closure of a nylon company due to the inability to transport materials efficiently.
Hammed Raheem, the Treasurer of the Community Development Association (CDA), stated that the collapsed bridge has paralyzed economic activities within the community. Despite the community’s efforts to address the issue by contributing funds, the available resources were insufficient to make substantial progress in repairing the bridge.
The situation has led to a significant decline in trade and commerce, as goods can no longer be transported freely to other communities, and people are hesitant to visit the community for trading purposes.
Olalekan Muibi, the Atayese of Antakiti, revealed that the community’s Baale, Mojeed Olayiwola, has persistently sought the government’s intervention to address the collapsed bridge. However, he acknowledged the challenges associated with obtaining swift government assistance.
The community urgently appeals for the government’s attention to rectify the collapsed bridge, as it has not only disrupted their connection with other communities but has also caused erosion and deterioration of the surrounding road.
