Despite the recent election of a new chairman in Boki Local Government Area, Cross River State, over 95% of council personnel avoid reporting to work at the headquarters in Bojie town. Accessibility challenges such as poor topography, long distances, and prohibitive transport costs hinder their attendance.
Council Chairman Eti-Eka Beatrice Etta Nyiam has also struggled to access her office regularly. Many workers prefer to work remotely, visiting the headquarters only occasionally. While the forested roads leading to Bojie have been graded, transport costs remain excessive, with daily travel expenses reaching N6,000 for some staffers.
Bissong Amos, a council staffer, lamented the lack of amenities in Bojie, including electricity, potable water, and suitable housing. He argued that the headquarters’ remote location makes it uninhabitable for most workers.
Ambassador Florence Kekong, a Boki LGA stalwart, highlighted the impact of staff absenteeism on governance, urging stakeholders to address the workers’ challenges. In response, Chairman Nyiam emphasized her commitment to improving conditions, citing the need for better road networks and investments in local infrastructure.
Nyiam expressed hope that improved accessibility would boost productivity and attract investors to Boki, noting the area’s untapped agricultural and natural resources. The situation underscores the urgent need for sustainable solutions to enhance governance and local development in the region.
