The Cross River State House of Assembly has called on the state government to urgently commence the rehabilitation of the Ikang Jetty in Bakassi Local Government Area, emphasizing its critical role in facilitating trade, transportation, and boosting economic activities in the area.
The motion, moved by the Member representing Bakassi State Constituency, Hon Eyo Bassey (Empowerment Chairman) on Thursday highlighted the jetty’s current dilapidated condition and the associated risk to lives, property, and economic activities in the area.
According to him; “The dilapidation of the Ikang Jetty severely hampers economic activities, increases transportation costs, discourages trade and poses significant safety hazards for commuters and goods, thereby hindering the region’s economic diversification and poverty alleviation efforts”.
The Bakassi Lawmaker further stressed that the Ikang Jetty serves as a crucial point of transit for goods and passengers and facilitates local and cross-border commerce. He emphasised that the urgent rehabilitation of the facility will increase economic activities and reduce the risk of accidents on the water.
“A rebuilt and modernised Ikang Jetty would not only restore a critical transport link but also stimulate local commerce, enhance cross-border trade with the Cameroons, create employment opportunities, improve the safety and efficiency of waterborne transport, and complement the broader vision of the State as a maritime hub”. He said.
Supporting the motion, Rt Hon Davies Etta, representing Abi and the Deputy Leader of the House, described the Jetty’s current state as critical having paid a visit to the facility recently. He urged the House to prevail on the state government to urgently rehabilitate the jetty.
Similarly, Hon Bassey Bassey (representing the neighbouring Akpabuyo State Constituency) noted that most maritime products in the state come from Bakassi and that the residents rely on the Jetty for their daily livelihood.
After extensive deliberation, the House unanimously adopted the motion describing it as timely. The Lawmakers further urged the State Government through the Ministry of Transport to commence the process of rebuilding and modernizing the jetty to a safe and functional standard.
In his conclusion, the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem thanked the sponsor and other Members for their concern for the people of Bakassi. He expressed confidence that the state governor who “has a listening ear” will soon address the issue to ameliorate the suffering of the Bakassi people.
