Cross River State Requires N100 Billion to Repair Facilities Damaged During EndSARS Protest – Official

The Cross River State Commissioner for Finance, Mike Odere, has revealed that the state needs approximately N100 billion to repair and restore government assets that were destroyed during the EndSARS protests in 2020. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Calabar on Wednesday, Odere emphasized the extensive damage caused during the protests, which led the state government to take a firm stance against violent demonstrations.

Commissioner Odere expressed appreciation for the citizens of Cross River State for supporting the government’s position on non-violent protests. He noted that the cost implications of repairing or replacing the damaged assets have significantly influenced the government’s approach to preventing a recurrence of such destructive protests. Odere called for peaceful and constructive protests, stressing that the purpose of protest should be to effect positive change rather than to cause destruction.

The commissioner also addressed the broader economic impact of ongoing nationwide protests, which have disrupted both public and private businesses. He reiterated that while the country faces significant challenges, violence is not the solution. Instead, protests should aim to bring attention to issues and advocate for change without infringing on the rights of others.

Odere assured that the administration of Governor Bassey Otu is fully aware of the current challenges facing the country and is actively working on reforms to improve the living standards in Cross River State. The state’s efforts in education, agriculture, solid minerals, and security are part of a broader commitment to serving the people and ensuring the state’s development.