The Cross River State Government has decried the illegal occupation of public assets in Ikom and pledged immediate and decisive action.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, led a high-level inspection tour of several government facilities across the Ikom Local Government Area, expressing strong disapproval over the unauthorized takeover of public lands and buildings.
According to Agbor, the encroachments were carried out by individuals who had previously worked in the establishments they now illegally occupy.

“This is not just a violation of the law—it is a betrayal of public trust,” Barr. Agbor stated. “It is particularly troubling that those who once served in these institutions are now collaborating with some community members to unlawfully convert government property for personal use.

“The present administration, under the leadership of Governor Bassey Otu, will not tolerate such brazen disregard for public assets. We are committed to justice and the recovery of every inch of encroached land.”

The facilities inspected during the tour included the Government Secondary School (GOVISCO) in Ikom, the Ministry of Works site at Border Road, the former Durafoam premises on Calabar Road, the Forestry Office, and the High Court—all located within Ikom.

Community leaders and education officials who joined the inspection expressed appreciation for the government’s intervention.

Mrs. Caroline Okongor, Coordinating Supervisory Director of the Ikom Zonal Education Office, described the inspection as “timely and commendable,” noting that it signaled a new era of accountability in public asset management.

Mrs. Glory Igra Agam, Principal of GOVISCO, and Elder Ferdinand Dibang, Head of Primary & Technical Education at the Zonal Education Office, echoed her views.

They emphasised that the government’s swift action would restore institutional integrity and boost morale among staff and students.

Also speaking, Mr. Chris Abia, Secretary of the Ukwa Traditional Council, applauded Governor Otu for the initiative, describing it as a necessary step toward restoring public confidence in government.

Residents of Ikom praised the governor’s effort and expressed hope that the reclaimed public assets would soon be returned to serve the common good.