Transformation in Cocoa Sector among notable achievements of Ben Ayade in Cross River – Ofuka
Dr. Oscar Ofuka, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on Cocoa Development and Control, lauds the outgoing governor for bringing unprecedented stability to the cocoa sector of
the state.
In response to questions from reporters in Calabar, Ofuka confidently asserted his exceptional performance by using his handover note as evidence.
He emphasized that if his achievements were to be evaluated, he would undoubtedly receive top marks on the scale.
Ofuka further highlighted his accomplishments particularly, including the government’s payment of long-standing royalties, which has paved the way for a remarkable transformation in the sector.
“Before now, Cocoa was treated as political largesse where anyone who wins elections shares it with those who supported him.
“We have a commodity that can transform Cross River State and let’s deemphasize this politics in Cocoa and make it an economic crop that can change the fortunes of the state.
“As it is now, the governor of the state has excelled in the area of agric development, particularly Cocoa production.
“As of two months ago, we have been able to pay 12.5 million naira which was the money owed to landlords by the Liyel Imoke administration but as of now, over 60 million naira has been paid.
“For the landlords, the days of coming to ask the government for rent is over and the problem has permanently been solved.
“With this, we expect increased revenue for the government as Cocoa is a major foreign income earner which can generate funds for the state.
“There will be wealth creation for families and massive employment generation in the sector which is projected at 500,000 for direct and indirect labour.
“It will also foster peace building among the Cocoa communities and their youths,” he said.
The current agreement, which forms a pivotal aspect of the judicial consent, entails all allocation payments being deposited into a SmartGov account and being automatically divided between the government and the landlord communities.
Additionally, as part of the sector’s revitalization efforts, a whopping 30 million enhanced seedlings have been disseminated across the state’s three Senatorial districts.
It has been reported that the deliberate efforts of the authorities have yielded fruitful results, as they have successfully reclaimed 32 hectares of land that were unlawfully granted to an individual in Etung by government officials.
Therefore, it is noteworthy that all outstanding obligations have been duly settled, and there are currently no legal disputes regarding royalties. This is indeed a commendable achievement and a testament to the unwavering commitment of those involved in upholding justice and fairness.
