Systemic Neglect of Cross River Unacceptable — Eteng Fumes
… Faults FG over exclusion, demands justice on 76 oil wells dispute
By Ekanem ASUQUO
Senator Eteng Jonah Williams has expressed deep frustration over what he described as the persistent and systemic neglect of Cross River State by the Federal Government, warning that the State’s continued marginalisation is both unjust and unsustainable.
The Senator, who represents Cross River Central Senatorial District, made the statement during a solidarity visit by members of the Cross River State Patriotic Front to his Abuja residence.
According to him, despite Cross River’s political loyalty, especially its support for the All Progressives Congress (APC), the State has received little or no reward in terms of federal presence, appointments, and resources.
“The way and manner Cross River is being treated is not only unacceptable, but also contradicts the principle of rewarding loyalty and performance,” the Senator said.
“We have contributed significantly to national unity and party success, yet we are left behind in the sharing of political and economic benefits.”
Senator Williams, a former Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, blamed the situation partly on poor negotiation during the State’s transition into the ruling APC, noting that critical political structures were handed over without securing concrete commitments.
On the lingering issue of the 76 oil wells controversially transferred to Akwa Ibom State, Williams called for a political resolution and urged the Federal Government to act swiftly in the interest of fairness and justice.
“The 76 oil wells matter requires more than legal arguments. It needs political will and a commitment to equity. Justice must prevail,” he emphasized.
The Senator acknowledged Governor Bassey Otu’s strides in repositioning the State and expanding APC’s reach across the South-South region, adding that the governor deserves commendation, not neglect.
Williams also urged stakeholders to rally behind advocacy groups like the Cross River State Patriotic Front, commending the organization for its non-partisan, issue-driven focus on the State’s welfare.
Earlier, Director General of the Cross River State Patriotic Front, Hon. Castro Ezama, condemned the systemic shortchanging of the State in both financial allocations and political appointments. He described Cross River’s situation as “deeply frustrating,” given the sacrifices it has made for national progress.
“Despite bringing Edo State and others into the APC fold, Cross River has been ignored, even losing key positions like the National Women Leader slot after Dr. Betta Edu’s ministerial appointment,” Ezama lamented.
He blamed toxic relationships among elected and appointed officials from the State for the disunity that often stalls collective progress.
Also speaking, Ms. Beatrice Akpala, Director of Communications for the group, reiterated the need for a united front in pushing for the State’s rights. She praised Senator Williams for his accessibility and political pedigree, noting that his track record made him a natural choice as Patron of the group.
In response, Senator Williams accepted the honour with appreciation and pledged to continue standing firm in defence of Cross River’s interests at the national level.
As calls for equity grow louder, the push to reverse the State’s fortunes appears to be gaining momentum ,with Senator Williams and the Patriotic Front leading the charge.
