Otu Bars Ofuka, Others From Govt. Cocoa Estate Amid Payment Of N34M Royalties To Landlord Communities

By Dominic OKOH 

The Cross River State Government has bared former Special Adviser on Cocoa Development and Control, Oscar Ofuka from all activities pertaining to the State Cocoa Estate amid payment of N34m royalties to Landlord communities.

This is re-echoing the Governor Bassey Otu-led administration's position that all former political appointees have been relieved of their appointments, and, therefore, cannot act on behalf of the State Government.

Recalled that The Beagle News, had in its Monday, July 4 fourth edition, in an article titled "Rot in C'River Cocoa Estate as host communities demand probe of unpaid royalties," laid bare the ongoing discrepancies and anomalies in the State Cocoa Estate and the misrepresentation of its handlers.

A release signed by Governor Bassey Otu's Chief Press Secretary, Emmanuel Ogbeche, dated July 6, 2023, vehemently stated: "It is imperative to inform the general public that Mr. Oscar Ofuka, former Special Adviser on Cocoa Development and Control has since been relieved of his appointment and is strongly advised to desist from parading himself in that light."

Stating further, the release warned that "all stakeholders in the cocoa value chain are to note that any agreement entered into on acquisition of cocoa plots beyond December 31, 2023 do so at his/her own risk and are advised to review such erroneous transactions with Mr. Oscar Ofuka and seek for their refunds."

The Government informed that it is "reviewing activities in the cocoa value chain to ensure transparency and accountability as well as exploit the inherent potential in the sector as a veritable revenue earner.

"Any attempt by any individual or group to undermine the Government’s directives in this regard will be seriously dealt with," the release forewarned.

However, findings by The Beagle News showed that about N34m has been paid by Ben Ayade 's government as part of royalties to landlord communities.

The money was paid into Zenith Bank Account no 1217518991 with account name of Etung Cocoa Estate Landlord Communities.

Sources also revealed that Dr. Oscar Ofuka had handed over on May 26 to the Transition Committee and Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources.