By Emmanuel Ikpe
The Village Head of Ikot Ntuen Offot in Uyo LGA, Eteidung Nsikak Ime Esang, has appealed to the Akwa Ibom State Government for urgent intervention as the community faces a two-year blackout and severe environmental degradation.
Speaking to journalists at his palace, the traditional ruler noted that the prolonged lack of electricity and functional transformers has forced many residents and tenants to abandon their homes and relocate.
While commending Governor Pastor Umo Eno for his developmental strides across the state, the Village Head lamented that Ikot Ntuen Offot remains neglected despite its proximity to the Government House.
A major concern is the community’s only school, which has been ravaged by gully erosion, effectively displacing both students and teachers.
Eteidung Esang attributed this environmental crisis to an abandoned road project by AMITEC Construction and Development Company, which failed to properly channel drainage to a nearby river.
In addition to requesting road and drainage infrastructure from the state and local governments, the Village Head called on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to include the village in its Light Up the Niger Delta project.
He specifically urged the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to provide transformers and solar street lighting to restore security and normalcy.
Despite these challenges, Eteidung Esang remains committed to the safety of his people and expressed his support for the continued success of the current administration.