By Abasi Ita
The Cross River State Government has condemned the unauthorized occupation of public property in Ikom Local Government Area, pledging swift action to reclaim encroached assets.
During an inspection tour of affected sites, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, expressed serious concern over the illegal conversion of government-owned lands and buildings.
He revealed that many of the encroachments were carried out by former staff of the institutions now under unlawful occupation.
“This is not just a legal violation—it is a betrayal of public trust,” Agbor stated.
“It is especially troubling that some former employees, who once worked in these institutions, are now collaborating with community members to convert government property for personal gain. Under Governor Bassey Otu’s leadership, this administration is committed to enforcing justice and recovering every inch of encroached land.”
The inspection covered several key facilities in Ikom, including the Government Secondary School (GOVISCO), the Ministry of Works site at Border Road, the former Durafoam premises along Calabar Road, the Forestry Office, and the Ikom High Court—each found to be affected by varying degrees of unauthorized occupation.
Reacting to the development, community leaders and education officials who participated in the inspection said government’s intervention to reclaim public property was long overdue.
In her remarks,Mrs. Caroline Okongor, Coordinating Supervisory Director of the Ikom Zonal Education Office, Caroline Okongor described the initiative as “timely and commendable,” noting that it signals a renewed commitment to accountability in public asset management.
Echoing her views, Mrs. Glory Agam, Principal of GOVISCO, and Elder Ferdinand Dibang, Head of Primary & Technical Education at the Zonal Education Office, respectively praised the move as essential to restoring institutional integrity and boosting staff morale.
Mr. Chris Abia, Secretary of the Ukwa Traditional Council, also applauded the government’s effort, describing it as a much-needed step to rebuild public confidence in state leadership.
In separation interviews,residents of the area expressed optimism that the reclaimed assets would soon be returned to productive use for the benefit of the community.
The inspection marks the beginning of a statewide recovery drive, as the Asset Management and Recovery Department prepares to extend its operations across all 18 local government areas of Cross River State. The initiative aligns with Governor Otu’s broader agenda to strengthen public institutions, restore order, and improve service delivery throughout the state.
The inspection covered several key government facilities in Ikom, including the Government Secondary School (GOVISCO), the Ministry of Works site at Border Road, the former Durafoam premises along Calabar Road, the Forestry Office, and the Ikom High Court. Each of these properties was found to have been either partially or fully encroached upon, prompting renewed urgency in the government’s recovery efforts.