The Cross River State Government has issued a stern warning to individuals and groups illegally occupying lands belonging to state-owned educational institutions, directing them to vacate immediately or face decisive action.
In a statement signed by Barr. Gilbert Agbor, Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu on Asset Management and Recovery, the government made it clear that defaulters will be dealt with, regardless of their status or influence. The illegal encroachments affect several institutions, including the University of Cross River (UNICROSS), the University of Education and Entrepreneurship in Akamkpa, and Government College, Ikot Ansa.
Other affected schools include Government Secondary School, Obio-Asim, Odukpani; Girls’ Secondary School, Ugep; Government Technical College, Obubra (formerly Government Senior Science College); and Government Secondary School (GOVISCO), Ikom.
Read also: Cross River cracks down on illegal Schools as Education Commissioner shuts down 2 Institutions
Cross River pays N399.7m WAEC fees for 14,804 students
Cross River Assembly applauds Gov. Otu’s development strides
Governor Otu has mandated the immediate recovery of all unlawfully occupied state properties, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safeguarding public assets and preventing their misuse for personal enrichment. The government is calling on the public to provide any useful information that could assist in reclaiming these lands, assuring informants of confidentiality and appropriate rewards for credible intelligence.
Residents and stakeholders have been urged to report any cases of illegal land occupation to the Department of Asset Management and Recovery at the Governor’s Office in Calabar. The crackdown signals the government’s resolve to protect its educational institutions and ensure that public properties serve their intended purpose.
