By Balimwor Ekpe
The Cross River State House of Assembly has called for the immediate investigation into the theft and vandalism perpetuated at the Cross River State piles and pylon factory in Awe, Akamkpa local Government area.
The member representing Akamkpa 1 State constituency, Hon.Okon Owuna moved the motion with emphasis on the urgency for state Government intervention, highlighting the potential economic benefits at stake. Member representing Akpabuyo constituency, Hon. Bassey Bassey and member representing Bakassi, Hon. Eyo Bassey also underscored the need for serious action to address the recurring issue of theft and ensure accountability among factory managers in the state.
The member representing Abi constituency, Hon. Davies Etta also highlighted the importance of prioritizing the proper functioning of equipment to prevent same or related incidents from occuring in the future.
Hon. Neji Abang of Ikom 1 constituency offered a compelling example of the unfortunate fate of Calas Vegas, where neglect resulted in major theft and vandalism. He urged the Government to take the proactive steps to ensure the vitality of the state’s factories and industries, thereby avoiding a similar fate.
Additionally, the legislators stated that the Government of the State must take must take the necessary measures to ensure the security of valuable equipments and prioritize the functioning of the facilities to prevent incidents like theft and vandalism from occuring.
The speaker of the House, Rt Hon. Elvert Ayambem expressed appreciation to Hon.Okon Owuna for bringing up the motion on the floor of the house and stressed the necessity of making sure those who pilfered Cross River State property face consequences in court as well as the significance of getting the properties back to lessen the burden on Governor Prince Bassey Otu.
