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By: Emmanuel Kanayo
The Okrika Plantation Community, Umuebulu Town, Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State has made a passionate appeal to government authorities for inclusion, infrastructure, and proper partnership—calling for a new chapter of collaboration after decades of neglect.
Led by its paramount ruler, King Engr Abiye Bright Iyo, the community decried the total lack of government presence in the area despite consistently producing over 6,000 votes in every election cycle.
“We’ve remained peaceful, law-abiding, and politically active, yet we’ve received nothing in return. No infrastructure, no support. But we are still ready to partner with government,” King Abiye stated.
A major concern raised by the monarch was the chaotic manner of revenue collection in the area. He urged that all revenue activities must be carried out in collaboration with the community leadership to prevent exploitation and intrusion by impostors.
King Abiye further insisted that revenue collection should begin from Ukwu Ube and Nwanji—recognized as the historic boundary with Oyigbo—and not from the expressway, which he says violates the community’s territorial integrity.
Beyond fiscal matters, the monarch called on neighboring communities to embrace peace, warning that the scars of the last communal crisis remain fresh. Many residents are still displaced, and numerous homes remain in ruins.
“We’re still healing. Our people need help. I appeal to government agencies and humanitarian organizations to come to the aid of our displaced and less privileged citizens,” he added.
King Engr Abiye, a British-trained metallurgical engineer and community development advocate, has continued to use his platform to advocate for inclusion, equity, and long-term peace in Etche LGA.
With this call, Okrika Plantation Community is signaling its readiness for progress—if only the government will listen.
