Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has urged traditional and opinion leaders in Yala local government area to prioritize fostering healthier communal ties and peaceful coexistence. This call comes as his administration seeks to harness the area’s significant agricultural potential and restore its status as a food basket of the state and Nigeria at large NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
Addressing a delegation from the Yala speaking people, led by the Paramount Ruler of Yala local government area, Ogamode Clement Onah Ipuole, Governor Otu emphasized the importance of cooperation among traditional authorities to prevent communal clashes and disputes. He assured the delegation of his administration’s commitment to revitalizing the renowned Okuku market to serve as a thriving local commodity hub of international standard.
“We want the cooperation of our traditional authorities to nip the avoidable records of communal clashes and other disputes in the bud,” Governor Otu urged, highlighting ongoing reforms to bolster the agricultural sector and enhance security measures in the area.
Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Nsa Gill, observed that the Governor pledged to consider requests made by the delegation, with a focus on improving the living standards of the Yala people. He expressed confidence that initiatives such as the envisioned Okuku commodity market would elevate areas like Okpoma and Okuku to urban and commercial nerve centers in the northern part of the state.
In response, Paramount Ruler Ogamode Clement Onah Ipuole affirmed the Yala speaking people’s solidarity with the Governor’s leadership. He highlighted key challenges facing the area, including the need for improved access roads, portable drinking water, and upgrades to local markets. Ogamode Ipuole also appealed for the establishment of an irrigation dam, exploration of salt deposits, and expansion of educational institutions in the area.
Chief Higgins Peters, a prominent stakeholder in Yala, commended Governor Otu’s responsiveness to the community’s concerns, expressing satisfaction with the outcome of the meeting and the Governor’s assurances to address pressing issues.
According to the Chief Press Secretary Gill, the engagement underlines the Governor’s commitment to fostering inclusive development and promoting peace coexistence in communities across Cross River State.
