Stakeholders of Afrike community in Bekwarra Local Government Area, Cross River State, have firmly distanced themselves from the recent protest against Hon. Omang Charles Omang, Member representing Bekwarra in the Cross River State House of Assembly.
Speaking on behalf of the community, the Honourable Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Michael Odere, stated unequivocally that Afrike people were neither consulted nor informed about the demonstration. He stressed that the community should not be listed among groups associated with the action, as it neither participated in nor endorsed it.
Dr. Odere reiterated Afrike longstanding commitment to peaceful and constructive engagement. He noted that the community does not believe in protests as a tool for pressing demands, but rather in dialogue, reasoned consultation, and strategic alliances as more sustainable pathways to development and political progress.
The statement also raised concerns over recurring divisions within Bekwarra. According to the stakeholders, conflicting positions among leaders have continued to slow development and cast the area in a negative light. They cautioned that misrepresenting communities in politically sensitive matters could deepen disunity and weaken Bekwarra collective bargaining power.
While acknowledging that Bekwarra is blessed with capable leaders, the community observed that divergent voices have often created confusion. This, they said, contrasts with neighboring local governments where coordinated and unified positions have helped attract development focused initiatives.
Afrike leaders described Bekwarra people as intellectually vibrant and well positioned to achieve greater gains if properly aligned. They called for a clear, unified direction that prioritizes shared progress over individual or sectional interests.
The youth of Bekwarra were specifically urged to adopt a developmental mindset and support initiatives that promote unity, stability, and long term growth. The stakeholders stressed that progress will remain elusive if energy is channeled into discord rather than constructive collaboration.
In conclusion, the Afrike community called for sustained dialogue among all communities in Bekwarra, emphasizing that meaningful development can only be achieved through inclusiveness, mutual respect, and a deliberate commitment to peaceful engagement.
Reaffirming its stance, Afrike maintained that it remains focused on lawful, non confrontational participation in governance and will continue to pursue its interests through due process and strategic partnership.
