- This is even as he admonished neighbouring states not to misconstrue the peaceful disposition of the people of the state for timidity and coward
Governor Bassey Otu has said Cross River State will not surrender an inch of its territory to neighbouring State.
This is even as he admonished neighbouring states not to misconstrue the peaceful disposition of the people of the state for timidity and coward.
Otu read the riot act when he welcomed members of the Cross River Elders’ Forum and other stakeholders who paid him a courtesy visit.
His admonition followed boundary disputes in recent times between border communities in the state and some neighbouring states, resulting in deaths and destruction of properties and farmlands.
He disclosed the deployment of drones for effective boundary monitoring, aimed at safeguarding the state’s territorial integrity.
Otu enumerated his the gains of his administration in enhancing state security, particularly along the borders, stressing that no inch of the state will be surrendered to neighbours.
“We are not surrendering an inch of our land to anyone. Cross Riverians are peaceful and loving people, but our kindness must not be mistaken for weakness,” Otu asserted.
Otu reiterated his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the state’s territorial boundaries, maintaining that his government will tackle pressing challenges such as insecurity and infrastructure development with a view to enhancing economic growth.
The governor equally revealed plans to tackle herdsmen/farmers clashes in the state.
He noted that many of the conflicts arise from avoidable misunderstandings, stressing his administration’s commitment to achieving lasting peace.
On illegal mining, Otu expressed concern over the unchecked exploitation of Cross River’s natural resources.
He described the practice as a threat to the state’s sustainability, revealing plans to collaborate with security agencies for stricter enforcement and regulation.
The governor outlined ongoing efforts to improve road networks and other infrastructure.
“We must have the basic infrastructure to support our people and harness our vast landmass.
“Our fight to reclaim what rightfully belongs to Cross River State, including our oil wells, remains unwavering,” he stressed
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