By Elijah Ugani
Residents of Obanliku Local Government Area in Cross River State have commended the timely intervention of two prominent sons of the area, Chief Dr. Goddy Jedy-Agba, and Dr. Roy Dimla, whose swift action restored access to the Obudu Mountain Resort (formerly Obudu Cattle Ranch) and several surrounding communities after twin landslides rendered the only access road impassable.
The landslides occurred on Sunday, June 21, 2026, following prolonged rainfall in the Becheve axis of Obanliku. The first landslide struck in the early hours of the day near the notorious “Devil’s Elbow” along the 11.5-kilometre winding road leading to the ranch. Although emergency crews initially cleared the debris, a second landslide occurred at the same location later that evening, burying the road once again and causing extensive damage that made it inaccessible to vehicles.
The destruction cut off movement to and from the Obudu Mountain Resort and several neighbouring communities. Farmers were unable to transport their produce to markets, commercial vehicles could not reach the affected areas, and school children were forced to trek through muddy and hazardous terrain to access their schools.
While the Cross River State Government was making arrangements to mobilize resources for a permanent solution to the damaged road, Chief Dr. Goddy Jedy-Agba and Dr. Roy Dimla stepped in to provide immediate relief. The duo mobilized personnel, heavy equipment, and construction materials to repair the affected sections of the road, restoring vehicular movement within a short period.
Their intervention brought immediate relief to residents and road users, enabling farmers to resume the transportation of agricultural produce, commercial activities to pick up again, and school children to travel to school without the fear of being stranded.
Community members have described the intervention as more than a road repair project, saying it demonstrated the power of responsible citizenship and community service. According to residents, the gesture showed that while government works towards long-term solutions, concerned individuals can play a meaningful role in responding to urgent public needs.
Many believe the intervention by Chief Dr. Goddy Jedy-Agba and Dr. Dimla will inspire other well-meaning citizens to contribute to the development of their communities, particularly during emergencies.
Chief Dr. Goddy Jedy-Agba, a technocrat from Utugwang and son of the late former Paramount Ruler of Obudu, Uti Jeddy-Agba, OON, has previously been associated with initiatives aimed at supporting the development of Cross River State. He is remembered for his contributions during the administration of former Governor Senator Liyel Imoke, when he reportedly assisted the state government in addressing salary obligations during a challenging financial period.
The successful reopening of the Obudu Ranch road has restored a vital economic and tourism corridor, reaffirming the importance of collaboration between government and public-spirited citizens in addressing critical infrastructure challenges.