Protests Intensify at Ikom–Obudu Road as Youths Demand Urgent Intervention
Protests have intensified across Central and Northern Cross River State as youths continue peaceful demonstrations at some of the most dangerous and dilapidated sections of the Ikom–Obudu federal road, demanding urgent government intervention.
Since Monday, young people from communities along the road corridor in Ikom, Etung, Boki, Obudu, and Obanliku Local Government Areas have gathered at critical failed portions of the highway to draw attention to what they describe as life-threatening conditions and prolonged neglect of the vital route. The socio-political movement Defendable Force was also part of the larger group of youth protesters actively participating in the demonstrations.
Speaking to journalists during the protest, Mr. Bright Achu and Mr. Cyril Ncha, representing the movement, criticized members of the National Assembly representing the Central and Northern Senatorial Districts, as well as House of Representatives members from Ikom/Boki, Obubra/Etung, and Obudu/Bekwara/Obanliku federal constituencies, for failing to coordinate action to address the road’s deteriorating condition.
“Year in, year out, our leaders preoccupy themselves with issues that do not directly impact the lives of the people they represent. Meanwhile, this road continues to deteriorate,” Achu lamented.
The youth highlighted the economic and social importance of the Ikom–Obudu road, describing it as a critical artery that links farming communities to markets and facilitates trade. They warned that prolonged neglect is worsening hardship, increasing transportation costs, and slowing commercial activity.
They further cautioned that public frustration is mounting, urging political leaders to act swiftly to prevent deeper discontent as the election season approaches.
The youth movement appealed directly to Governor Bassey Edet Otu to intervene and mitigate the socio-economic impact of the road’s condition, suggesting supportive measures similar to those applied to other federal roads in the state.
“We are calling on the Governor to urgently come to our rescue. The condition of this road is unbearable,” Mr. Ncha stated.
Protesters emphasized that basic democratic dividends such as roads, electricity, water, and other social amenities are owed to citizens and warned that continued neglect could escalate into more widespread agitation.
Youth representatives across the five LGAs have vowed to sustain peaceful protests at the worst-hit sections of the road until concrete rehabilitation begins.
In response, top government officials, including the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Emmanuel Ironbar; the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Oden Ewa; and the Director of Finance and Administration in the South-South Development Commission, Ambassador Soni Abang, have all made efforts, reassuring the protesters that government is attentive and committed to finding solutions.
