The Osopong people of Obubra LGA, Cross River State, have called on Governor Bassey Otu to ensure the swift completion of the Mobile Force Base in Ogurude, a nearby community.
They believe the barracks is crucial in addressing the recurring boundary clashes between their community and the Izi/Ikwo people of Ebonyi State.
Their appeal was made during a town hall meeting at the Obubra Council auditorium, attended by stakeholders and chaired by the state’s acting governor, Dr. Peter Odey, represented by Commissioner for Works, Engr. Pius Ankpor.
Stakeholders expressed concern that the barracks, which was 70% completed, had been abandoned for a long time.
They commended the state government’s commitment to tackling intercommunal conflicts and maintaining peace in the area.
In addition to security concerns, the community leaders also demanded the grading and asphalting of the Obubra Ring Road.
They proposed that the road, which connects several key communities— including Ofumbongha Yala, Onyen-Orangha, Akam-Ogbagwoni, and Onyen Okpon— be completed as a tribute to former Deputy Governor, Chief John Oyom Okpa.
Addressing the gathering, the acting governor assured the residents that work on the police barracks would resume immediately to provide a lasting solution to the long-standing boundary dispute.
He reiterated that the state government was committed to infrastructural development and revealed that the 2025 budget had earmarked funds for select road projects within Obubra LGA.
He further urged the community to prioritize their development needs in line with available resources, emphasizing the government’s strategy of choice and opportunity cost in project selection.
