Cross River State Commissioner for Finance, Michael Odere, has highlighted the substantial financial burden of ₦100 billion required to repair and replace government assets destroyed during the EndSARS protests in 2020. Odere explained that the extensive damage witnessed during those protests has led the state government to adopt a firm stance against violent demonstrations.
Odere praised the Cross River community for supporting the government’s preference for non-violent protests, emphasizing that peace should be maintained. He argued that protests should aim to bring about change without resorting to violence or infringing on the rights of others. He also noted that ongoing protests have negatively impacted the economy, leading to the shutdown of many public and private businesses.
The commissioner reiterated the state’s commitment to reform and improvement across various sectors, including education, agriculture, solid minerals, and security, under Governor Bassey Otu’s leadership.