The Cross River State Government has averted looming protests that threatened to stall work on the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway after the construction giant HITECH and two host local government areas resolved a bitter dispute over the dismissal of indigenous workers and the exclusion of local contractors.

The breakthrough occurred during an extraordinary security meeting in Calabar, where the State Security Adviser, Major General O. U. Obono (Rtd), brokered peace between HITECH and the chairmen of Akamkpa and Odukpani LGAs, Hon. Amb. Felix Akposi and Hon. Chief Ukpong Asido.

The two chairmen had jointly petitioned HITECH over growing discontent within host communities, alleging that indigenous workers were being dismissed without due process and replaced with non-indigenes, while local contractors were reportedly offered poor rates compared to preferred firms.

They also stated that community-driven security frameworks, proposed through the State Liaison Officer (SLO), had reportedly been sidelined.

Their petition warned that the situation had generated “palpable tension,” citing intelligence reports of possible protests that could degenerate into broader security challenges if left unchecked.

Speaking during the meeting, the State Security Adviser said: “Any issue that threatens the fibre of security is not treated with levity.”

“We took very proactive steps by drawing the attention of the company to this matter,” he continued.

“You have heard it from Akamkpa and Odukpani, and how they appreciate the project, but the issues raised cannot be buried under the carpet,” the State Security Adviser said.

HITECH’s Community Relations Manager, Prince David Omaghomi, assured stakeholders of the company’s commitment to fairness and inclusion, pledging to review all concerns raised.

Omaghomi attributed the communication gap to the initial absence of a Community Liaison Officer but announced the appointment of Mr Charles Ntui, an indigene, as CLO to interface directly with the State Liaison Officer, Mr Asuquo Out.

He also commended the SLO for his “steadfastness and proactiveness” in managing community relations.

The resolution is expected to pave the way for further dialogue among stakeholders to ensure the strategic highway project proceeds without disruption while fostering inclusivity and mutual trust. (Sunday Tribune)