In the bid to avert the damage of perishable food crops from farm to markets in Cross River State, Governor Bassey Otu, has approved immediate construction of new roads in rural communities. This is to enable farmers to evacuate produce from their agricultural plantations without stress. Governor Otu announced that the executive has ratified and approved the construction of new roads across the state, including the 5km Mkpani-Agoi road in Yakurr LGA. He said the state also adopted a draft bill for enactment of Cross River Rural Access Roads Authority Law 2024.
The Agoi people in Yakurr local government have over the years lamented their inability to transport their farm yields, mainly fruits and vegetables leading to many losses. A former presidential aide, Obol Okoi Obono-Obla hailed the decision to embark on construction of the road, saying infrastructural development in the Agoi region must be prioritised to alleviate the suffering of the people. Obono-Obla called on the government to address the dire situation facing the Agoi communities because of its vulnerability, implement measures to alleviate their hardships and improve their living conditions.
The traditional ruler also added that Agoi communities are facing a serious security threat due to illegal miners infiltrating the area in search of gold mines from the Sahelian region of West Africa and Nigeria. “Enhancing transportation connectivity in the region is crucial for the movement of goods, services, and people. This would help accelerate the region’s rise as a food production hub. “Constructing the road from Ugep to Agoi Ibami could connect it with Idomi in Yakurr and Adim in Biase, facilitating the transportation of food items like plantains, yams, and garri.”
Emphasising the advantage of such development, the monarch said, “Currently, every market truck from Akwa Ibom, Ebonyi, and even Benue State travels to Agoi Ibami for these food products.”
However, notwithstanding the potentials for food produce from the area, the danger posed by the activities of miners remain a major concern. He said, “This influx of illegal miners poses a significant risk to the sanctity of the region and could potentially destabilise the entire Cross River State if left unchecked.”
