by
Adie Ukongikwen
The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon Peter Odey, today the 20th of February, 2024, received in his office the Ekumtak Welfare Association (EWA) Calabar Branch.
In his opening remark, the leader of the delegation and Chairman of EWA, Hon. Justin Bentem said Ekumtak Welfare Association whose objectives include looking out for the welfare of Mbube sons and daughters and the development of Mbube nation as a whole was in the office to felicitate with the Deputy Governor over the electoral and subsequent judicial victory of himself and the ‘People First ‘ Governor, Sen. Prince Bassey Otu.
While praying God to continue to guide them in their administration he highlighted some issues affecting the Ekumtak people to include dilapidated secondary and primary schools; bad road network in the community; the need for portable water and electricity; gainful engagement of their youths; and completion of their town hall, and solicited for the support of government, public spirited individuals and NGOs to ameliorate the plight of the people.
Responding to the Chairman’s remarks, Rt. Hon. Odey appreciated the visit of Ekumtak people. Regarding their demands, he said “Your demands are not out of place because these are basic amenities that government should provide”.
Odey assured the association that all the issues affecting the Ekumtak people will be met as this will be meeting his own needs as well. The Deputy Governor used the opportunity to announce that the road leading from Ndok Junction into Mbube had already been awarded under the CR-RAAMP Project while also informing the delegation of ongoing water projects he had already sponsored in the community, assuring them that Ekumtak will benefit from the project.
Present during the call were distinguished personalities of Ekumtak-Mbube, Sir B. O Ekpong, Justice Eunice Dada, Mr Godwin Nyiam, Chief Dr. A. A Abuo, Ms. Monica Ekpong and others.
Highlights of the visit was a presentation of souvenirs to Rt. Hon Odey and a photo session with the visitors.
