Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu has directed the immediate rehabilitation of the damaged sections of the Calabar-Odukpani Road, insisting that motorists should no longer endure the dangers caused by years of deterioration.
The Calabar-Odukpani Road is a key route connecting Calabar metropolis with Odukpani, Akamkpa and other parts of the state. Its worsening condition in recent months has sparked widespread concern among residents and road users.
Governor Otu issued the directive on Monday while inspecting critical portions of the highway along the Calabar corridor, where severe gully erosion and numerous potholes have rendered parts of the road hazardous to commuters.
He said, “Today, I undertook another round of inspection across the Calabar corridor, with particular attention to the failed sections of the Calabar/Odukpani Road. Seeing the condition of these critical stretches further reinforces our resolve to ensure that our people can move safely and conveniently.”
The Governor said he had directed the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure to mobilize contractors to the affected areas without delay to commence emergency repairs.
“I have directed the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure to immediately mobilise to the affected locations and commence remedial interventions to restore these failed portions as an urgent priority,” he stated.
He noted that while the emergency works would bring immediate relief to residents and motorists, the government was already designing a long-term engineering solution to end the cycle of recurring failures on the road.
Otu stressed that his administration would not settle for patchwork solutions, but would pursue infrastructure that is resilient, sustainable and fit for future generations.
“While these emergency repairs will provide immediate relief to commuters and residents, we are equally committed to developing and implementing a more durable, resilient, and sustainable engineering solution that addresses the underlying causes of the recurring failures.
“Our administration remains steadfast in its commitment to building infrastructure that not only meets today’s needs but also serves future generations,” the governor said.
He added that every road restored and every project executed by his government is driven by a single objective: improving the quality of life for the people of Cross River State.
The Governor further appealed to residents for patience and cooperation as government ramps up efforts to deliver lasting infrastructure across the state.
“We appreciate the patience, understanding, and cooperation of our citizens as we work tirelessly to deliver lasting infrastructure that reflects the aspirations of our dear state,” Otu added.