In a communique issued at the end of the Council Congress and signed by Comr. Eyo Charles as chairman, Comr. Ita Williams as Secretary and Comr. Ekong Ekpa members.
The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, under the leadership of its Chairman, Comrade Archibong Bassey, has issued a communiqué at the end of its Congress held on Wednesday 29th April 2026 at its state council secretariat, Ernest Etim Bassey Press Centre, 3rd Avenue, State Housing Estate, Calabar.
The Congress called on the state government and relevant authorities to urgently address key issues affecting public safety, infrastructure, and governance in the state.
Return of Okada
The Congress observed with concern the resurgence of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada, within major streets of Calabar metropolis. It noted that the increasing and largely unregulated operations of Okada riders pose serious threats to traffic order and public safety.
The Congress therefore urged relevant authorities to strictly enforce existing regulations governing their operations and ensure compliance with designated routes.
Illegal Gas Outlets
The Congress also expressed strong concern over the indiscriminate siting of gas retail outlets within residential neighbourhoods across the state.
It described the trend as dangerous and capable of exposing residents to avoidable risks, stressing the need for proper urban planning and strict adherence to safety standards in line with regulatory provisions.
The Union further referenced a recent fire outbreak linked to a gas facility at the Edibe area of Calabar, which reportedly resulted in the demise of many and hospitalisation of some residents and the destruction of property worth millions of Naira. It described the incident as unfortunate and preventable, underscoring the urgent need for stricter regulation of gas-related businesses.
The Congress called on government agencies to clamp down on illegal and substandard gas outlets operating in the state and enforce full compliance with safety guidelines.
Continual Power Outages
The Congress also decried the persistent power outage in parts of Calabar metropolis and other major towns in the state, which has left residents in prolonged darkness.
It appealed to the state government to intervene by facilitating the provision of additional transformers to enable the Port Harcourt Electricity Distribution Company (PHED) restore stable electricity supply to the affected communities, noting that access to electricity is critical to economic and social wellbeing.
Blocked Drainages, Scavengers
On environmental concerns, the Congress expressed worry over recurring flooding in parts of Calabar. It called on the Ministry of Environment and other relevant agencies to take proactive measures, including the desilting of drainage channels and rehabilitation of deteriorated roads, to ensure effective water flow and reduce flood risks during the rainy season.
Furthermore, the Congress condemned the activities of scavengers and buyers of 'iron-condemned" materials, warning that their operations contribute significantly to stealing of metal objects in private homes, vandalism and the destruction of public infrastructure.
It called for full enforcement of the ban on such activities, as well as sustained monitoring and appropriate sanctions for offenders.
In conclusion, the Congress reiterated its commitment to constructive engagement with government and stakeholders in the interest of good governance, public safety, and sustainable development in Cross River State.
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