By Abasi Ita
The Senator representing Cross River Central Senatorial District, Eteng Williams, has called for immediate federal intervention over the worsening condition of the Ikom Calabar and Ikom Obudu highways.
Williams raised the concern during the 2025 budget defence session of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency before the Senate Committee, where he described the two federal roads as critical infrastructure that has completely deteriorated.
He said communities in Cross River Central are facing severe hardship as economic activities along the corridors have been disrupted. According to the senator, the near collapse of the roads has significantly hampered the movement of goods and services, placing additional strain on residents and businesses that rely on the routes.
For several weeks, youths from Ikom and Boki Local Government Areas have staged protests over the deplorable condition of the Ikom Obudu road. The aggrieved youths blocked sections of the highway, chanting No Road No 2027 Elections to express their frustration and demand urgent repairs.
Williams said the protests reflect the depth of anger among the people, noting that their concerns are justified given the prolonged neglect of the roads. He stressed that swift federal action is necessary to restore public confidence and revive economic activities in the area.
Responding during the session, the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo, acknowledged the importance of the affected roads and assured lawmakers that the Ministry is aware of the situation and will take appropriate steps to address the challenges.
The Ikom Calabar and Ikom Obudu highways serve as major links connecting communities across Cross River State and remain vital to transportation and commerce in the region. Residents have continued to press for comprehensive rehabilitation to ease movement and support economic growth.