The Cross River NUJ has condemned the alleged continued harassment and extortion of motorists and transport operators by traffic regulatory agencies in the state, accusing them of prioritising revenue generation over their statutory responsibility of traffic management and road safety.
Key Highlights:
- Cross River NUJ condemns alleged extortion by traffic agencies.
- Union accuses agencies of ignoring Governor Bassey Otu’s directive.
- Journalists call for investigation into the activities of traffic regulators.
- Congress commends ongoing urban renewal projects in Calabar.
- NUJ urges immediate intervention on the deteriorating Ikom–Wula–Obudu Highway.
- Calls for enforcement of scrap metal trading ban and proactive environmental management.
The position was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the June 2026 Congress of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, held in Calabar.
The communiqué, signed by the Chairman of the Communiqué Drafting Committee, Sunny Nku, alongside Essien Ukorobi and Itam Ekpe, expressed concern over the activities of the Cross River State Traffic Management and Regulatory Agency and the Calabar Traffic Regulatory Authority.
According to the union, officials of the agencies have allegedly continued to harass motorists and transport operators under the guise of revenue generation, despite a directive from Governor Bassey Otu mandating them to focus primarily on traffic control, regulation and the maintenance of order on the roads.
The congress strongly criticised what it described as the excesses of the agencies, stating that their actions were contrary to government policy and undermined public confidence in state institutions.
The journalists recalled that the state government had specifically directed the agencies to concentrate on traffic management and other regulatory functions rather than serving as channels for excessive revenue collection.
The Cross River NUJ therefore called on the relevant authorities to investigate the activities of the agencies and ensure strict compliance with the governor’s directive in the interest of transparency, accountability and public trust.
NUJ Commends Urban Renewal Projects
The congress also commended the Cross River State Government for its ongoing urban renewal programme, particularly the rehabilitation of Azikiwe Street and Ewa Henshaw Street in Calabar South.
Members noted that the roads had remained in deplorable condition for years and described the intervention as a positive step toward improving infrastructure and easing transportation challenges in the area.
Call for Urgent Repair of Ikom–Wula–Obudu Highway
The union appealed to Governor Bassey Otu to facilitate immediate remedial work on the Ikom–Wula–Obudu Highway, citing the dangers posed by the deteriorating condition of the road to motorists, commuters and the transportation of agricultural produce.
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According to the congress, urgent intervention is required to prevent accidents, reduce travel difficulties and boost economic activities along the corridor.
Concern Over Environmental Hazards
The journalists also urged the state government to intensify environmental management efforts across the state, including the removal of fallen trees obstructing roads and the assessment of ageing trees that may pose threats to lives and property.
The congress stressed the importance of proactive measures to prevent incidents that could endanger residents and road users.
Enforcement of Scrap Metal Ban
Furthermore, the union called on relevant enforcement agencies to ensure strict compliance with the government’s ban on scrap metal trading, popularly known as the “iron condemn” business.
The journalists expressed concern that the activities continue in Satellite Town and other parts of Calabar despite the ban, urging authorities to strengthen enforcement and prosecute violators.
The congress reaffirmed its commitment to promoting good governance, public accountability and policies that enhance the welfare and safety of residents across Cross River State.
