A controversy is unfolding in Calabar, Nigeria, where a street renaming has sparked outrage among local residents. Idang Street, located in the Calabar South LGA, has been renamed Etinyin Ekpenyong Oniong, allegedly without the consent of the community. The new name is believed to be that of Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr’s grandfather, who represents the Cross River southern senatorial district in the National Assembly.
The move has been met with widespread criticism, with locals and the local government council expressing surprise and anger at the Senator’s audacity. Commissioner for Works, Pius Ankpo, has described the renaming as “deceptive and unfair,” emphasizing that it was inappropriate for the Senator to make such a decision without consulting the community.
Former lawmaker and current Cross River representative on the board of NDDC, Orok Duke, has also spoken out against the renaming. He commended the Calabar South Council leadership for taking a stand against the move and criticized federal lawmakers for attempting to take credit for state-led projects. According to Duke, this tactic is often used to divert funds and mislead constituents.
Duke cited the example of the Nyanghasang community road project in Calabar, which he claimed was not facilitated or executed by the Senate committee on NDDC, contrary to some reports. He also highlighted the case of Idang Street, where only half of the street has been completed, and the renaming has sparked anger and division among residents. “Some individuals from the Senate came in, hurriedly asphalted a section of the road, and tried to claim ownership to divert funds,” he said.
The controversy surrounding the street renaming has raised questions about the role of federal lawmakers in local projects and the importance of community consultation. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the issue will be resolved and what implications it may have for the community and the Senator involved. One thing is certain, however: the people of Calabar will be watching closely to ensure that their voices are heard and their interests are represented.
