Two people have died following alleged flooding and building collapses along the Ataobong Bypass section of the Phase IV East-West Road project in Akwa Ibom State.

The affected families have taken the Federal Government and the construction company handling the project to court, demanding one billion naira in damages.

The families allege that construction work by Gitto Construczioni General Nigeria Limited changed the flow of rainwater into residential areas, leading to flooding and the collapse of buildings.

One of the victims, Isaac Nkenyie, reportedly died when his house collapsed during heavy rainfall, while a child from a neighbouring family also died in a similar building collapse.

The families are also seeking compensation for their lands and properties, as well as an order stopping what they described as selective payment of compensation.

The case, filed at the Eket High Court, has been adjourned until October 20, 2026, for hearing.