News Editor
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Demands Payment for Forest Rangers
By David Odama
The Cross River State House of Assembly, during Friday plenary approved an additional two-weeks leave for the State Governor, Sen. Bassey Edet Otu, The extension followed a formal request transmitted to the House by the Governor, which was read on the floor by the Clerk of the House.
The decision to extend the leave according to the statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Matthew Okache
was unanimously adopted by the members of the House,
The statement added that the Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey will continue to act in his stead pending the Governor’s return.
The statement also announced the Assembly’s decision to lifted the suspension placed on the Councilor representing Ajassor Ward in Etung Local Government Area. The councilor, who was suspended months ago over allegations of misconduct, was cleared following recommendations of the House Committee on Local Government.
Also at the plenary, the House called on the State Government to urgently pay the salaries and entitlements of forest rangers who were employed nine months ago but have yet to receive any form of remuneration. The lawmakers decried the poor working conditions of the rangers, describing their role in protecting the state’s forest reserves as critical in combating illegal logging and preserving biodiversity.
The motion, which received wide support urged the Ministry of Climate Change and Forestry, as well as the Office of the Accountant General, to ensure prompt action.
In a remark, the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, said the House remains committed to transparency, good governance, and the well-being of all citizens. He emphasized that the decisions taken reflect the priorities of the people and assured that the Assembly will continue to carry out its constitutional duties without fear or favour.
“Our resolutions today are in the best interest of Cross Riverians. We must support our Governor as he refuels to take the State Forward, uphold fairness in local governance, and ensure that those who protect our forests are not neglected. The House will always stand for justice and accountability,” the Speaker stated.
