The people of Osusuokpor community in Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State are celebrating their first-ever access to clean water following the commissioning of a borehole project that ends decades of water scarcity.
Community chairman Randy Njan revealed that prior to this development, residents had neither pond nor stream from which to draw drinking water, forcing women and children to trek long distances to neighboring Obubra LGA in search of water for drinking and household use.
The water project was commissioned by Samuel Neji Abang, the representative for Ikom I constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, marking a significant milestone for the community.
Decades of Neglect Finally Addressed
According to Njan, the community had been largely forgotten by authorities since the return to democracy in 1999. "We have never been remembered since 1999, but today we're happy that water which is life has been given to us," he stated.
The chairman highlighted the hardships faced by residents, particularly women and children who previously had to travel as far as the boundary between Ikom and Obubra to access water, especially during dry seasons. "With this project, that has become a thing of the past," Njan added.
"In the past, women and children would travel long distances, often as far as the boundary between Ikom and Obubra, to access water, especially during dry seasons but with this project, that has become a thing of the past." - Randy Njan, Osusuokpor Community Chairman
Improved Quality of Life Expected
The water project is expected to significantly improve the lives of Osusuokpor residents by providing reliable access to clean drinking water and enhancing their overall well-being. Representative Samuel Neji Abang assured the community that they would soon witness further significant development in line with his 'people first' mantra.
Edo Owan, Secretary of Ikom Council, advised community members to guard the project jealously and protect it from vandalism to ensure its longevity and continued benefit to residents.
This development represents a crucial step forward for rural communities in Cross River State, where access to basic amenities like clean water remains a challenge for many residents despite decades of democratic governance.
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