By Joseph ETTA in Calabar
Cross River State House of Assembly has called on Governor Ben Ayade to urgently rehabilitate indescribably bad roads across the state, particularly Calabar, the state capital.
In a motion moved by member representing Boki II state constituency, Mr. Hilary Bisong, the assembly reminded the governor that he was solely responsible for the provision of good roads and other social amenities for the people.
Bisong explained further that Section 20, Chapter 2 of the 1999 Constitution as amended, placed on the governor powers to protect and improve the environment, water, air, land, forest, and wildlife and that road infrastructure was an integral part of the environment which enhances the free movement of people, goods and services, which is the mainstay of the economy.
“The issue of having good and accessible roads cannot be over-emphasised as it adds to the exquisiteness of the state and attracts tourists to the state. The repair of roads should not be done during December because of carnival. “Some major roads and streets in the state are in deplorable and despicable state and need urgent attention. The state government should take urgent steps to return Calabar metropolis to its exquisite state,’’ he said. Bisong expressed worries that the state Road Maintenance Agency was not carrying out the instructions of the state government by maintaining and rehabilitating failed portions of roads in Calabar metropolis. Also speaking, the deputy speaker of the House, Mr. Joseph Bassey, expressed dissatisfaction with the road network in the state, saying that the road maintenance levy paid by citizens must be investigated to ensure judicious use.
Member representing Obudu state constituency, Godwin Akwaji, appealed to the ministry of works and road maintenance agency to rise to their duties by addressing deplorable roads in Calabar metropolis.
Speaker of the House, Mr. Eteng Jonah-Williams, charged the House Committee on Works and Infrastructure to investigate the activities of all government agencies responsible for road maintenance and reiterated the commitment of the House on legislations, which would benefit the citizens.
