By Balimwor Ekpe
The Cross River State House of Assembly has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the status of various properties, including the prominent Transcorp Hotel in Calabar, and several state-owned factories.
The motion, moved by Rt. Hon. Davies Etta, Member representing Abi State constituency and Deputy Majority Leader of the House, garnered significant support from other members who expressed deep-seated concerns over the lack of employment opportunities for Cross Riverians.
Hon. Martins Achadu the member representing Yala 2 said the anomaly of concessions being made without sufficient employment opportunities for residents, emphasizing the need for a thorough inquiry into the matter.
Also speaking, the member representing Ikom 1 State Constituency, Hon. Neji Abang emphasized the importance of understanding the true state of government-owned industries for the benefit of the common man, particularly in terms of employment generation.
Furthermore, the member representing Akamkpa 2 State Constituency, Hon. Okon Owuna stressed the necessity of reviewing all government properties that have been subject to concession agreements, advocating for increased participation of Cross Riverians in their operation for mutual benefit.
The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem underscored the collective responsibility of safeguarding the interests of the state. He pledged that any government property whose true status remains undisclosed will be reclaimed in the best interest of Cross Riverians.
