Calabar Municipal Council denies involvement in Illegal Traffic Enforcement
The Calabar Municipal Council has issued a strong denial regarding its alleged involvement in illegal traffic enforcement activities across the Calabar Metropolis, pushing back against accusations from the Cross River State Traffic Management and Regulatory Agency (TRAMRA).
The Council, under the leadership of Apostle James Anam, categorically stated that TRAMRA's allegations are "completely false, unfounded, unverifiable and a mischievous attempt to defame" its administration.
The press release, signed by Oqua E. Etim, Chief Press Secretary for the Calabar Municipal Council, asserted that Chairman Apostle James Anam had previously "disbanded the Council Task Forces and enforcement teams for management and regulation of traffic in the Municipality." This move, according to the Council, underscores its non-involvement in any current traffic enforcement operations.
The Council's statement comes amidst a backdrop of ongoing efforts to manage traffic in Calabar, a city that has seen various initiatives and challenges related to road use and regulation. TRAMRA itself was established to address increasing road crashes and violations, with a mandate to ensure compliance with traffic laws. However, a recent report from December 2024 indicated that the Director General of TRAMRA faced a panel over allegations of financial irregularities and imposing "outrageous levies" on traffic offenders, suggesting potential issues within the state agency's own operations.
The Calabar Municipal Council has now publicly called on "relevant security agencies to ensure prompt arrest and prosecution of anyone or group of persons engaging in these unwholesome acts," effectively placing the onus on law enforcement to tackle unauthorized traffic control. This suggests a potential recognition of illegal enforcement by non-state actors or individuals falsely representing official bodies.
Chairman Apostle James Anam has been actively involved in various initiatives within the Calabar Municipality since assuming office.
His administration recently launched an e-revenue system to promote transparency and ease of doing business, and he has also embarked on significant renovation projects within the Council Headquarters and local markets.
These efforts align with the Council's stated commitment to the "People First Mantra" of the Cross River State Government, led by Senator Bassey Otu.
The Council urged TRAMRA to "conduct proper investigations and verify information before making such public, to avoid painting the Calabar Municipal Council in bad light."
