By Edem Ekpo
The Cross River State Head of Service, Obol Dr. Innocent Eteng, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to wade into the lingering ownership tussle between Cross River and Akwa Ibom over 76 oil wells, saying only a political solution can bring lasting peace.
Speaking in Calabar during a press briefing to kick-start the 2025 Civil Service Week, Eteng argued that geography, maritime boundaries, and historical facts clearly indicate that the oil wells are located in the Bakassi area still under Nigeria’s control.
“In that case, the oil wells rightly belong to Cross River. The Supreme Court judgment on this matter relied on misleading information and submissions presented by the National Boundary Commission,” he maintained.
Eteng, speaking on behalf of the state’s workforce, appealed to President Tinubu to consider the huge sacrifices made by Cross River during the ceding of parts of Bakassi to Cameroon, noting that resolving the matter would be a step towards fairness and equity.
He added that the dispute’s resolution would improve the state’s dwindling federal allocation, enabling the government to meet pressing developmental needs and enhance citizens’ welfare.
Turning to the Civil Service Week celebrations, Eteng said the programme was designed to recognise the dignity of labour and commend the hard work, commitment, and excellence displayed by civil servants.
He urged workers to reciprocate government’s efforts, citing the recent approval of a N70,000 minimum wage, prompt promotions, and other welfare incentives.
“Governor Bassey Otu has made staff welfare a top priority. More than 200 retiring workers have been trained in entrepreneurship and agriculture and given N500,000 each as start-up grants. Plans are also underway to provide official vehicles for permanent secretaries,” Eteng revealed.
He stressed that the administration was working diligently to restore the globally acclaimed standards, discipline, and due process that once defined the Cross River State public service.