MBAH MONDAY, CALABAR
The Cross River State House of Assembly has urged the State government, through the Ministry of Transportation and Marine Services in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government Affairs to provide outboard engines to riverine communities in Etung Local Government Area of the State.
According to the Assembly, the call became necessary to enhance rural infrastructure, improve access to essential services as well as strengthen emergency response in the affected communities.
lt also added that the outboard engines would help alleviate the transportation challenges of the people and promote inclusive development.
The legislators further urged the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and other relevant development partners to support the initiative aimed at ameliorating the sufferings of the people.
In a motion sponsored by the Member representing Etung State Constituency, Mr Kingsley Ntui who sought his colleagues’ support towards the passage for the motion, said Etung South has several riverine communities including Abijang, Nsofang, Mkpot and Itaka wards which depend solely on water transportation for their daily activities.
“The absence of motorized Marine transport, particularly functional outboard engines, has subjected the residents to severe transportation hardship, economic stagnation and limited access to emergency and health care services.” Ntui stated.
The Deputy Leader of the Assembly, Mr Davies Etta representing Abi State Constituency, supported the motion, stressing the need for the immediate provision of the outboard engines to ease the plight of the citizens.
The Speaker of the Assembly, Mr Elvert Ayambem and other Members unanimously supported the motion urging the State Government to urgently implement their resolution.
