Youths in Cross River have urged federal and state governments to urgently fix collapsed sections of the 120km Ikom–Boki–Obudu Highway, saying over 80 communities across five local government areas have been cut off.
Speaking in Calabar, Dr. Assam Etta described the road, constructed in 1979, as a “death trap,” lamenting that farmers cannot transport produce due to frequent vehicle breakdowns. He accused the state government of neglect despite repeated appeals.
Mr. Wilfred Obun said past rehabilitation efforts failed, noting that contracts were awarded multiple times without lasting results, including interventions by the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA).
Another youth, Mr. Armstrong Agbor, warned that residents may resume protests if no action is taken, following a recent “No Road, No Election” demonstration.
Responding, Commissioner for Information Dr. Erasmus Ekpang said the government is aware of the road’s condition and is consulting on possible collaboration with FERMA to address the problem.
