C’RIVER GOV ORDERS URGENT REPAIR OF FAILED ROAD SECTION

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has ordered immediate remedial work on the failed portions of the Calabar-Odukpani Road, declaring that the safety and convenience of commuters will no longer be compromised by years of neglect.

The Calabar-Odukpani Road serves as a major gateway linking Calabar Metropolis to Odukpani, Akamkpa and other parts of the state, and its deplorable condition in recent months has drawn widespread public outcry.

The Governor gave the directive on Monday during an inspection tour of critical sections along the Calabar corridor, where gully erosion and potholes have turned parts of the highway into death traps.

He said, “Today, I undertook another round of inspection across the Calabar corridor, with particular attention to the failed sections of the Calabar/Odukpani Road. Seeing the condition of these critical stretches further reinforces our resolve to ensure that our people can move safely and conveniently.”

The Governor said he had directed the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure to mobilize contractors to the affected areas without delay to commence emergency repairs.

“I have directed the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure to immediately mobilise to the affected locations and commence remedial interventions to restore these failed portions as an urgent priority,” he stated.

He noted that while the emergency works would bring immediate relief to residents and motorists, the government was already designing a long-term engineering solution to end the cycle of recurring failures on the road.

Otu stressed that his administration would not settle for patchwork solutions, but would pursue infrastructure that is resilient, sustainable and fit for future generations.

“While these emergency repairs will provide immediate relief to commuters and residents, we are equally committed to developing and implementing a more durable, resilient, and sustainable engineering solution that addresses the underlying causes of the recurring failures.

“Our administration remains steadfast in its commitment to building infrastructure that not only meets today’s needs but also serves future generations,” the governor said.

He added that every road restored and every project executed by his government is driven by a single objective: improving the quality of life for the people of Cross River State.

The Governor further appealed to residents for patience and cooperation as government ramps up efforts to deliver lasting infrastructure across the state.

“We appreciate the patience, understanding, and cooperation of our citizens as we work tirelessly to deliver lasting infrastructure that reflects the aspirations of our dear state,” Otu added.