The Cross River State House of Assembly has strongly condemned a petition sent to President Bola Tinubu by a group identified as the Indigenous Displaced People of Bakassi, urging the federal government to delist Bakassi from Nigeria’s 774 local government areas.
The petition, also copied to the Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Senator representing Cross River Southern Senatorial District, was criticized by lawmakers for bypassing state authorities and failing to engage Governor Bassey Otu directly.
Raising the issue during plenary, Hon. Eyo Bassey, who represents Bakassi State Constituency, stated that he was not consulted before the petition was submitted. He reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the needs of the Bakassi people through constructive dialogue rather than political agitation.
Co-sponsors of the motion denounced the petitioners for sidestepping established channels, calling it a disregard for due process. Other lawmakers highlighted Governor Otu’s key developmental projects across the state, urging Bakassi residents to work with the government rather than be swayed by political interests.
The legislators emphasized that Governor Otu’s People First Agenda is inclusive, benefiting all parts of the state, including Bakassi. They cited initiatives such as the Bakassi Deep Seaport project as evidence of the administration’s commitment to the area’s progress.
Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, condemned the petition as “a complete misnomer and facade,” warning against attempts to politicize sensitive issues.
“Cross River State is our common heritage. No local government is more ‘Cross River’ than another. No selfish interest will derail the progress our state is witnessing. Cross River is on the right track,” Ayambem stated.
The Assembly resolved to summon the petitioners for a public explanation while urging Bakassi stakeholders to embrace dialogue and cooperation. Lawmakers called on residents to remain calm and trust the government’s commitment to addressing their concerns.