More than 700 youths in Yala ll state constituency of cross river state have launched a protest demanding improved infrastructure, effective representation and better governance in their communities.
The group, operating under the banner of the United Ukelle youths of Ukelle development, said the constituent has face decade of neglect despite being part of one of Nigerian’s oil-producing states.
In a press statement sign by the organization’s Public relations officer, Obok Joseph Igbang, the youths accused political leaders of abandoning the area, citing poor roads, lack of electricity and inadequate health facilities.
The protest movement adopted the slogan “No road, No election,” a campaign that threatens to boycott future election unless basic social amenities are provided.
Youths accused leaders long-term neglect.
According to the statement, residents of Ukelle believe their communities have been sidelined in terms of development and political representation.
The youth claimed the constituency has little to no visible government presence, noting that several villages lack motorable roads, electricity supply and functional healthcare services.
They also alleged that most of the available health centers are in poor condition, leaving residents with limited access modern medical care.
The group further lamented what it described as decades of marginalization, insisting that their agitation is driving by the need for better living conditions.
“No Road, No Election” campaign sparks political tension.
The protest campaign has reportedly intensified political tension within the constituency, as youths insist they will not participate in elections until their demands are addressed.
Under the “No road, “No election” movement, residents said they will not vote for any candidate if key infrastructure such as roads, electricity and other services are not provided.
The campaign has already gain attention locally after youth erected a banner in Wanokom Ward bearing inscription No road, No election
According to the statement, the protest banner was intended to highlight the frustration of residents who have demanded development in the area.
Youth accused community leaders of intimidation.
The group also alleged that some members of the political class have responded to the agitation by collaborating with certain community leaders to penalize the protesters.
They claimed that youth responsible for putting up the protest banner were fined N100,000, along with other items including three crates of beer and a life Pig.
According to the youths, the sanctions were imposed as punishment for publicly criticizing the condition of the road project currently underway in the area.
The protesters argued that such actions are attempt to silence them and discourage their advocacy for development
Controversy over video showing road project.
The press release also addressed a viral video that showed the alleged poor quality of work on an ongoing 5-kilometre road project in Ukelle.
Some critices reportedly claimed the video was produced for online attention or “content creation.”
However, the youth group denied the allegation, insisting that the video was recorded to document the true condition of the road construction.
According to them, the individual who initially recorded the footage was later pressure to release another video contradicting the first one, which they claimed was intended to mislead the public.
The group said the attempt to label the protesters as “thugs”or “content creation” were aimed at undermining their campaign.
Youths insists protest is constitutional.
Despite the controversy, the youth said they remain committed to their demand for improve infrastructure in Ukelle.
They stressed that the protest is a peaceful and lawful exercise of their right as citizens.
“we are citizens of Cross River State. It’s our constitutional right to demand our rights”
They added that their agitation would continue until the Ukelle road project is fully completed and other social amenities are provided.
Call for completion of Ukelle road project.
While expressing dissatisfaction with the current situation, the youth acknowledge the ongoing project initiated by the state government.
They thanked the administration of Bassey Edet Otu, the executive governor of Cross River State for initiating the 5-kilometre road project
However they urged the government to extend to cover the entire 47-kilometre stretch connecting the area to Benue border.
According to the group, completing the road would significantly improve economic activities, transportation and access to essential services for communities in the constituency.
They conclude by reiterating that Ukelle residence deserve improved living standards and equal development opportunities like other part of the state.
