A former Special Adviser on Cocoa Development and Control to ex-Cross River State Governor, Senator Ben Ayade, Dr Oscar Ofuka, has thrown his weight behind Governor Bassey Otu’s ongoing infrastructure drive by donating a facility to support the rehabilitation of the Ikom-Obudu road.
Donation to Construction Firm
Ofuka made the donation at the weekend in Bendeghe Ekiem community in Etung Local Government Area while handing over a police station he constructed for temporary use by Faith Plants Global, the firm handling the 10-kilometre road rehabilitation project.
The former aide described the gesture as a contribution towards government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and stimulate development in the area. According to him, providing accommodation for the construction company would help facilitate smooth execution of the project and enhance security within the host community.
“This is my little way of supporting the efforts of government and giving back to society,” Ofuka said during the handover ceremony.
Community Leaders Commend Initiative
Receiving the keys on behalf of the construction firm, the Clan Head of Okosoro Clan, His Royal Highness Ntufam Abraham Asu, commended Ofuka for the initiative. The traditional ruler said the donation demonstrated commitment to community development and the security of personnel involved in the road project. He noted that the facility would contribute to creating a conducive environment for the successful completion of the rehabilitation work.
Asu also addressed the lingering disputes surrounding cocoa farm allocations in the area, describing the issue as a recurring source of tension among stakeholders. He observed that disagreements over cocoa allocations and compliance with court judgments had contributed to crises in the past and pledged that traditional institutions would work towards a lasting resolution.
The monarch assured residents that community leaders would continue to engage relevant parties to promote peace and protect investments in the area.
Call for Peace and Lawful Conduct
Also speaking, Chairman of the Crisis Management Committee of Mbube Blocks of Clans, Chief Moses Ndep, urged youths of Bendeghe Ekiem to refrain from entering cocoa farms that are subjects of pending court cases. Ndep maintained that the disputed farms were originally allocated to farmers by the immediate past administration and advised all parties to respect legal processes.
He expressed support for efforts by traditional rulers and community elders to prevent further disputes, stressing that maintaining peace was essential for development and the successful execution of ongoing government projects.
