By Abasi Ita
Aggrieved youths from communities worst hit by the deteriorating condition of the Ikom–Obudu federal highway are preparing to stage another round of protests to draw urgent government attention to the worsening state of the road.
The planned action, scheduled to commence on March 23, is expected to run through April 5, as residents intensify calls for intervention on what they describe as a critical but neglected transport corridor.
The affected stretch cuts across several local government areas including Ikom, Etung, Boki, Obanliku and Obudu Local Government Area, linking communities and serving as a major route for economic activities in northern Cross River State.
Organisers of the protest said the decision to return to the streets follows what they termed continued government inaction despite earlier demonstrations and repeated appeals.
In a notice circulated to residents and business operators, the youth groups warned that vehicular movement, transportation of goods and daily commuting along the Ikom, Obudu and Wula axis would be disrupted during the protest period.
They described the highway as an economic lifeline that has been reduced to a shadow of itself, with poor road conditions hindering trade, increasing travel time and exposing commuters to safety risks.
“As stakeholders, we are aware of the inconvenience this protest may cause, but it has become necessary to involve everyone in the struggle for a road that is vital to our survival,” the statement read.
The organisers assured that the demonstration would remain peaceful, urging transporters, traders and residents to cooperate and maintain order throughout the exercise.
According to them, the temporary hardship caused by the protest is a necessary step toward achieving lasting solutions, stressing that a functional highway would significantly improve economic activities and enhance safety in the region.
They further called on community leaders, unions and other stakeholders to lend their support, insisting that collective action is needed to compel authorities to act.
Signatories to the notice include Chief Dr Assam Martins Etta, Chairman of NYCN Abo Ward, and Comrade Tandu Kingsley Ntui, known as Sar King, a youth leader in Bendeghe Ekiem.
Copies of the notice have also been forwarded to transport unions representing timber dealers, banana and cocoa merchants, cyclists and drivers, as well as security agencies including the Police, Army, Department of State Services and local vigilante groups.
The protest, themed “No Road, No Elections,” reflects deepening frustration among residents who say the prolonged neglect of the highway continues to undermine livelihoods and economic growth across the affected communities.