Prof Odey Visits SSDC M/D, Laments Infrastructural Neglect of Yache Communities
By Bassey BASSEY
Senator Professor Stephen Odey, Esq., Commissioner for Education, Cross River State, has lamentedsevere infrastructural neglect, particularly the absence of electricity, good road networks, and potable water in Yache communities in Yala Local government area of Cross River State.
Odey stated this when he led a high-powered delegation of Yache Royal Fathers, elites, political leaders, and community stakeholders on a courtesy visit to the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the South South Development Commission (SSDC), Miss Usoro Offiong Akpabio, in Calabar, lamenting severe infrastructural neglect of Yala Local government area.
Speaking on behalf of the Chiefs, Elders, political leaders, and the entire people of Yache Communities in Yala Local Government Area, Professor Odey expressed deep appreciation to the Federal Government of Nigeria for establishing the South South Development Commission, describing it as a bold and visionary initiative aimed at addressing infrastructural deficits and fostering regional development.
He noted that the visit was not merely ceremonial but a strategic engagement rooted in the shared aspiration for growth, equity, and prosperity within the South-South region.
The Plight of Yache Communities
Senator Odey highlighted the vast geographical spread and agricultural strength of Yache Communities, which extend to the boundary with Benue State and contribute significantly to food production in Cross River State and beyond.
Despite this, he lamented that the communities continue to suffer from severe infrastructural neglect, particularly the absence of electricity, good road networks, and potable water.
According to him, the lack of electricity has had far-reaching socio-economic consequences. Farmers are unable to process produce efficiently, small-scale businesses operate below capacity, health facilities cannot store essential drugs and vaccines, and students are forced to study under poor lighting conditions.
He further stressed that the situation has fueled rural-urban migration, depriving the communities of their youthful workforce and economic potential.
Political Contribution and Call for Equity
Professor Odey also underscored the political relevance of Yache, noting its strong voter turnout and unwavering support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) at all levels. He emphasised that the community’s loyalty reflects its belief in inclusive governance and the Renewed Hope agenda, adding that such commitment should be matched with equitable infrastructural development.
Request for Electrification
Senator Odey formally appealed to the SSDC for urgent intervention in the electrification of Yache Communities. He proposed both grid connection and alternative off-grid solutions such as solar mini-grids and renewable energy systems. He assured the Commission of the community’s readiness to support the project through provision of right-of-way, local labour, security, and active participation in maintenance.
Describing the request as both urgent and strategic, he noted that electrifying Yache would unlock agricultural processing, boost local industries, improve healthcare delivery, enhance education, and stimulate economic growth across the region.
Response from SSDC Leadership
In her response, the MD/CEO of SSDC, Miss Usoro Offiong Akpabio, commended Senator Professor Stephen Odey for his articulate presentation and leadership. She expressed appreciation to the royal fathers, stakeholders, and the entire delegation for their commitment to development.
She affirmed that the concerns raised—particularly in the areas of electricity, roads, water, and agriculture—are genuine and aligned with the Commission’s mandate. She assured the delegation that their requests would be incorporated into the Commission’s regional development plans.
Miss Akpabio reiterated that the SSDC was established to collaborate with communities, development partners, and relevant agencies to improve infrastructure, promote economic growth, and enhance the quality of life for people across the South-South region.
Also speaking, the Executive Director, Communication and Environment, Hon. Joseph A. U., praised Senator Odey’s intellectual depth and leadership, describing him as a distinguished academic and statesman.
Delivering a vote of thanks, His Royal Highness, Chief Isaac Omaji, expressed profound gratitude to the MD/CEO for granting the audience and attentively listening to the community’s requests. He conveyed optimism that the Commission would respond positively and bring much-needed development to Yache.
The visit concluded on a hopeful and optimistic note, with a shared commitment between the SSDC and the Yache delegation to work collaboratively towards delivering critical infrastructure and improving the living standards of the people.
