Agborkim Waterfall joins protest against planned privatization of Cocoa Estate in C’River
Ani Bassey
The youth leader of Agborkim Waterfall community in Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State, Comrade Enoh Theophilus Ekuri, has called on Governor Bassey Otu to scrap the planned privatization of the government-controlled cocoa estate. The community is concerned that the move would negatively impact their livelihood and lead to a rise in anti-social vices.
During an interactive session with journalists, Comrade Ekuri urged the governor to reconsider the decision, stressing that the cocoa plantation is the mainstay of the community’s economy. “It’s easier for the state government to privatize the governor’s office than attempt to touch the cocoa plantation,” he said.
The youth leader made this call just before leading over 2,000 community youths in a protest against the planned privatization. He advised the governor to be cautious of advisors who may provide misguided counsel. “Not every advice given to you by your subordinates is worth listening to. You promised us sweetness; let the season of sweetness not turn to bitterness.”
Opinion leader Mr. Danis Owan echoed similar sentiments, stating that privatization would plunge the community into abject poverty. “Our economy hinges on cocoa production. If the estate is privatized, our youths will automatically become poor, and be exposed to anti-social vices like theft, prostitution, and armed robbery.”
Protesters, including Miss Omom Ekuri-Bassey, expressed their anger and frustration, urging the governor not to force them into desperation. “We are angry with the attempt to cease our only source of livelihood. We cannot quit our farms to join prostitution or other vices due to frustration that comes with joblessness.”
The community is pleading with the governor to reconsider the privatization plan and protect their interests.
Their protest follows similar protests by Abia and Bendege Ekim against the privatization policy of the state government in recent days.
