by Edim M. Edim (16/03/20121)

The provision of electricity for the citizens of any given country among other social amenities is a sole responsibility the Government owes her people. The availability of electricity is very essential to driving socio-economic growth, investment and rapid development in any society, and must be provided in areas where necessary. However, it has become a “normal" that the Government has failed to live up to her expectation in this area, and as a result, small, medium and large business establishments have continued to suffer serious setback in their respective busineses' growth.

Iyamitet is a community in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State. This community is one of the fastest growing communities in Cross River State in terms of socio-economic growth and infrastructural development. Iyamitet produces hundreds and thousand tons of cocoa yearly, and other agricultural produce, as well as the availability of some precious stones where mining takes place to generate revenue for the Government.


In 2007, during the early days of His Excellency Sen. Liyel Imoke's Administration, the then Governor of Cross River State, a contract was awarded for the provision of electricity in Iyamitet Community from the Iyamoyong Community in Obubra Local Government Area, Cross River State. This development was welcomed with excitement and satisfaction, with the impression that it was a sign of many good things to come from the Government into the community.

Truly, the project was executed to about 80% completion level, with the provision and mounting of transformers at strategic points. Sadly, it's exactly 14 years and still counting, the project is yet to be completed. The Iyamitet Community is still in almost pepertual darkness. And only God knows how long this unfortunate situation will continue. The poles and wires have long fallen to the ground, with the transformers all damaged and some of its vital components stolen.

Therefore, I call on relevant Government authorities to look into this situation, and proffer immediate solution; especially the Governor of Cross River State, Senator, Central Senatorial District, Member Representing Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency, Member Representing Adun/Okum in the Cross River State House of Assembly, The Chairman of Obubra Local Government Council among others should please come to their rescue.