By Jonathan Ugbal
Listen To The Report
There is currently a tense atmosphere at the headquarters of the Cross River State Water Board Limited in Calabar after the former Managing Director, Mr. Victor Ekpo forced his way into the premises and his former office while using men of the Nigeria Police Force to scare away staff.
A video obtained by CrossRiverWatch shows staff waiting outside while operatives attached to the Anti Cultism and Kidnapping Squad and a joint task force, Operation Akpakwu wielding guns and standing at the entrance.
On Monday, staff protested against Mr. Ekpo’s attempt to resume office after he resigned to contest the All Progressives Congress, APC senatorial primaries. Mr. Ekpo withdrew from the contest and declared support for the eventual candidate, Asuquo Ekpenyong Jnr. at the primaries which were held on May 28, 2022.
Section 84, sub 12 of the electoral act 2022 as amended provides for appointees to resign at least 30 days before participating in the primaries, congresses, or conventions of political parties.
Staff says they are yet to see a letter reappointing him as the MD. And, two labor unions representing 74 staff met and wrote a communiqué rejecting Mr. Ekpo while listing a litany of challenges ranging from incompetence to poor welfare among others.
But, that did not deter Mr. Ekpo who reportedly printed a notice on the company’s letterhead calling for a meeting to resolve the issue, which necessitated the protest while demanding that a better replacement be made by the Governor, Sen. Ben Ayade.
The Head of Service in the State, Mr. Timothy Akwaji, who addressed the protesting staff, urged them to return to their duty posts, as the Government has heard their cry.
Watch.
