The Cross River State government has tagged several buildings for demolition, including the residence of Alphonsus Eba, the deputy governorship candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party. This action, carried out by the state’s Planning and Development Control Taskforce, prompted Eba to declare that his political ambitions remain firm regardless of potential property loss or personal threats.
On Monday, taskforce officials placed a notice on Eba’s residence in the Water Board Estate in Calabar, demanding a halt to all construction. Official notices cite that roughly 20 structures, including Eba’s, were built within the protected right-of-way of the Cross River State Water Board pipeline. The state claims these buildings jeopardize public safety by hindering essential maintenance and creating risks of water contamination and infrastructure failure.
Eba characterized the government’s actions as a politically driven vendetta. He emphasized that he remains committed to his electoral goals, stating that his resolve is unshakable. He also called on Governor Otu to maintain professional boundaries, noting his past history with the ruling party and his transition to the opposition.
State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, countered these allegations by stating the demolition is part of a broader initiative to restore the city’s water infrastructure. He confirmed that 20 properties were flagged, including homes owned by allies of the current administration. Ekpang stressed that previous warnings had been issued to property owners, urging the public to stop politicizing essential urban development efforts.
