By Daniel Agbor
Concerns over rising tensions in parts of Cross River State linked to the ongoing Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project have prompted swift engagement between government authorities and the construction firm, Hi-Tech Construction, following a formal petition by the two local government chairmen.
The petition, jointly raised by the Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Area, Hon. Amb. (Ophot) Felix Akposi KSJI, and his Odukpani counterpart, Hon. (Chief) Ukpong Asido, had drawn urgent attention to what they described as growing discontent among host communities over the operations of the construction company.
Central to their concerns were allegations of exclusion of local content, inequitable allocation of employment opportunities, and strained community relations.
Specifically, the petition highlighted claims that local contractors were being offered unfavourable rates compared to preferred firms, thereby undermining their participation. It further alleged that indigenous workers were being dismissed without due process and replaced with non-indigenes, while community driven security frameworks proposed through the State Liaison Officer (SLO) had reportedly been sidelined.
The situation, according to the petitioners, had begun to generate palpable tension within affected communities, with intelligence reports warning of possible protests that could degenerate into broader security challenges if not urgently addressed.
In response, an extraordinary meeting was convened at the office of the State Security Adviser in Calabar, where Major General O. U. Obono (Rtd) engaged directly with the Community Relations Manager (CRM) of Hi-Tech Construction, Prince David Omaghomi, over the issues raised.
Addressing the meeting, the State Security Adviser underscored the seriousness of the matter, noting that concerns capable of undermining public peace must be treated with urgency and responsibility.
“Any issue that threatens the fibre of security is not treated with levity. Hence, we took very proactive steps by drawing the attention of the company to this matter,” he stated.
He further acknowledged the dual position of the host local governments, noting that while they remain fully in support of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project, the grievances expressed by their people cannot be ignored.
“You have heard it from Akamkpa and Odukpani, and how they appreciate the project, but the issues raised cannot be buried under the carpet,” he added.
Responding, Hi-Tech Construction swiftly moved to clear the air on the allegations, assuring stakeholders of its commitment to fairness, transparency, inclusion and adherence to established guidelines in its operations.
The company maintained that it values its relationship with host communities and remains open to constructive engagement to address any misunderstandings.
Prince David Omaghomi, speaking on behalf of the company, reiterated Hi-Tech’s willingness to review concerns raised and strengthen its collaboration with local authorities, particularly in areas of employment, local contractor participation, and community-based security integration.
He cleared the air on the issue of State Liaison Officer, handled by Mr. Asuquo Otu and introduced the company’s Community Liaison Officer (CLO) – Mr. Charles Ntui, an indigenous employee of the company, explaining that the communication gap created by the absence of the CLO from inception were reasons for the observed differences.
He commended the SLO, for his steadfastness, doggedness and proactiveness adding that with the engagement of a CLO amongst its employees who will be interfacing and working with the SLO for smooth operations, all such tensions will be a thing of the past.
The meeting is expected to pave the way for further dialogue among stakeholders, with the aim of de-escalating tensions and ensuring that the project proceeds without disruption while fostering inclusivity and mutual trust.
Pertinent to note that the timely intervention by the State Security Adviser has proven critical in averting potential unrest and reinforcing confidence among host communities as the strategic coastal highway project progresses.
