Last week, the Senator representing Cross River South, Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong, once again drew the Senate’s attention to the worsening erosion and landslide crisis in Calabar and neighbouring communities, continuing a pattern of advocacy that has become a defining feature of his representation. The Senate responded by calling for the immediate release of ecological funds to help Cross River tackle the problem, which threatens lives, homes and livelihoods.
The Senate identified Atakpa, Edim Otop, Ikot Effangha Mkpa, Nyaghasang, Ikot Anwatim, Nasarawa/Bacoco, Akai Effa, Bayside and Summit Hills among the affected areas. Anansa was also listed as a community where continuing landslides have damaged properties and displaced residents.
For a first-timer, Sen. Asuquo has undoubtedly exceeded expectations as his three years representation has been nothing short of impressive. He has built a reputation of consistently drawing national attention to critical issues affecting his senatorial district and indeed the state since assuming office in 2023.
From the deplorable condition of the Calabar–Itu Road and the slow pace of work on the project to the recurring erosion crisis in Calabar, he has continued to use his position to seek solutions. He has also raised concerns that has led to serious actions on the Calabar–Oban–Ekang Road, erosion in Nassarawa and Ikot Nkebre, and killings and boundary disputes in Odukpani.
At home, he has facilitated projects, grants, scholarships and employment opportunities for his constituents and others. In Abuja, he has sponsored motions and bills on issues of national importance. As the youngest senator in the 10th Assembly, his record reflects an effort to connect legislative work with the everyday concerns of the people he represents.
Governor Bassey Otu has found in Sen. Asuquo a partner in the effort to move Cross River forward. Their respective efforts also highlight the importance of cooperation between the state government and its representatives at the national level in pursuing projects, attracting federal support and addressing the state’s development needs.
Higher federal allocations and increased internally generated revenue alone cannot meet every development need of the state. Governor Otu has an ambitious agenda for the people, but debt servicing, salaries and inherited pension and gratuity obligations place considerable demands on available resources. Attracting funding and support from other sources is therefore not only essential but a necessity.
This is where sustained legislative advocacy becomes important. A motion in the Senate can draw national attention to a problem, but consistent engagement with the relevant ministries, agencies and government officials is often necessary to secure the desired outcome. A functional state lobby group could help coordinate these efforts, track commitments and ensure that Cross River’s requests receive the attention they deserve.
Other members of the National Assembly representing Cross River can build on this what Sen. Asuquo has done by working together to pursue the state’s common interests. Beyond raising motions, they can maintain pressure on relevant federal agencies, follow up on proposed interventions and collaborate with the state government to turn opportunities into tangible benefits for the people. A coordinated effort would give the state a stronger voice in Abuja.
Sen. Asuquo has proven how persistent advocacy can bring local concerns to the national stage. As he continues his work, greater collaboration among Cross River’s federal lawmakers could help extend the reach of these efforts and improve the state’s chances of securing the support it needs.
-Inyali Peter, Ph.D.
