Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, a prominent civil rights attorney and former presidential aide, has issued a stern call to action regarding the deteriorating security situation in Cross River State. He is specifically urging Governor Bassey Otu and James Anam, the Chairman of the Calabar Municipal Council, to intervene and stop the rising tide of aggression directed at local traders.
Despite a directive issued by Governor Otu over two months ago aimed at stopping council agents from assaulting and harassing traders, these “uncouth” practices have reportedly persisted. Obono-Obla noted that the lack of adherence to the Governor’s orders has allowed a hostile environment to fester within the city’s commercial hubs.
In a formal statement released in Calabar this Sunday, on the 28th of December, 2025, Obono-Obla raised the alarm over the loss of authority in key trading zones like Marian Market and Ika Ika Qua. He alleged that these spaces are now dominated by:Unchecked touts and cultists, Petty criminals, and Aggressive rate agents.
The legal expert expressed deep concern over the “audacity” of these actors, who he claims are physically abusing elderly women and legitimate traders. He characterized these actions as not only unlawful and condemnable but also a significant stain on the reputation of the Calabar Municipal Council.
While Obono-Obla highlighted a disturbing shift in the municipality’s public spaces, where constitutional order has been replaced by intimidation. He argued that the current atmosphere:Infringes on the dignity of hardworking citizens, creates a “might-is-right” environment, and targets the most vulnerable members of the community.
While Obono-Obla recognized the Council Chairman’s move toward transparency citing the recent publication of the proposed 2026 budget he insisted that financial accountability is insufficient without physical security.
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“Transparency in governance is commendable, but it must be matched with decisive measures to protect fundamental rights and restore sanity in public spaces,” he said. “There is an urgent need to rein in these touts and cultists whose activities have undermined good governance and public confidence.”
Concluding his appeal, the lawyer challenged the council’s leadership to prioritize human dignity and discipline to end the current state of “anomie and anarchy.”
“Only then can Calabar Municipal Council truly reflect the ideals of good governance and serve the people rather than oppress them”, he maintained.