Cross River govt commends residents for shunning protest

The Cross River State Government extends its sincere gratitude to all the people and residents of the state for not participating in the nationwide protest that began on August 1, 2024.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information, Erasmus Ekpang, the government reviewed reports from all 18 Local Government Areas over the past five days of the proposed 10 Days of Rage. It has been confirmed that Cross River State did not take part in the planned protest, which is reassuring news.

“This is indeed a strong vote of confidence in Governor Otu and his team. Cross River State has continued to thrive peacefully despite repeated threats from the protest organizers.

“Accordingly, the government wholeheartedly acknowledges and commends the contributions, sacrifices, and support of all segments of our community, including our security agencies, the political class, traditional and religious leaders, professional bodies, public communication experts, media practitioners, corporate and business organizations, labor unions, women and youth groups, students, and the unemployed. Their support has helped ensure that our state remained peaceful, serene, and convivial during this challenging period, despite the hardships.

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The statement emphasized that the government is aware of the demands and challenges faced by the people and is committed to enhancing public welfare through strong policy measures and programs aimed at overall economic progress to alleviate the people’s hardships.

“Furthermore, the government urges everyone in our dear state to remain focused and conduct their normal activities without fear of molestation. It also advises caution against fake, unfounded, and misleading information that could jeopardize the prevailing peace in the state for personal gain.

The government calls on petroleum product depots and fueling station owners, transport unions, and market associations to reduce their prices to pre-protest levels to help alleviate the current hardships faced by the public.

Meanwhile, it has instructed all security agencies to remain on high alert around the clock, in line with the directives of the Chief of Defence Staff, to prevent any untoward incidents in and around Cross River State.