In a significant move to alleviate hardship and reward diligence, the Wife of the Cross River State Governor, Her Excellency Eyoanwan Otu, has secured the clearance of eleven months of unpaid stipends for 1,234 women sweepers employed by the Urban Development Authority.
The sweeping initiative, which benefits workers across the state’s Central and Northern Senatorial Districts, was announced during a series of events concluding in Obudu on Monday. The program also included the distribution of 170 Point of Sale (POS) machines to provide the women with additional means of livelihood.
Addressing crowds at separate ceremonies in Ugep, Ikom, Ogoja, and Obudu, the First Lady hailed the sweepers as “unsung heroines” whose dedication to keeping the state clean had gone unrewarded for too long.
“For eleven long months, you laboured without receiving the reward for your sweat. Many endured profound hardship, yet you did not give up,” Mrs. Otu stated. “By the grace of God and under the compassionate leadership of my husband, your tears are being turned into laughter, and your sacrifices are finally being rewarded.”
She emphasized that the action was a direct reflection of Governor Bassey Otu’s ‘People First’ agenda, stating, “This is not just about payment; it’s about justice and dignity. Our government prioritizes the needs of the people and acknowledges the invaluable contributions of ordinary citizens.”
Local Government Chairmen and Lawmakers Applaud Gesture
The event was attended by chairmen and representatives from the four beneficiary local government areas, who unanimously praised the First Lady’s intervention.
The chairmen of Yakurr, Ikom, Ogoja, and Obudu LGAs described her actions as “a beacon of hope and humanity.”
Mercy Akpama and Samuel Neji Abang, lawmakers representing Yakurr 11 and Ikom 1 State Constituencies, highlighted the gesture’s positive impact, noting it instilled a renewed sense of belonging and appreciation among the constituents.
Mrs. Elizabeth Adie, Executive Secretary of Obudu LGA, commended the administration for valuing the women’s hard work. “This gesture affirms that diligence will be rewarded in this administration,” she said.
Beneficiaries Express Relief and Gratitude
For the beneficiaries, the announcement brought immense relief. Mrs. Dorathy Oko, speaking on behalf of Bekwarra Women in Politics, noted that many sweepers had been forced to stop work due to the protracted arrears.
Individual sweepers, including Mrs. Josephine Boniface from Obudu and Mrs. Jenny Ofem from Ugep, shared their joy, stating the gesture made them feel “valued and appreciated” by the administration. They offered prayers for the Governor and his family for the timely intervention.
Breakdown of Beneficiaries and Empowerment Items
A total of 1,234 sweepers benefited from the stipend clearance, with a breakdown as follows:
· Ugep Urban: 420 sweepers
· Ikom Urban: 198 sweepers
· Ogoja Urban: 281 sweepers
· Obudu Urban: 335 sweepers
In addition to the payments, 40 POS machines were distributed to women sweepers in each of the four LGAs. A special allocation of 10 machines was also made for Persons with Disabilities in Yakurr LGA, bringing the total number of POS machines distributed to 170.
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