OGOJA, Cross River State — The Vice Chairman of Ogoja Local Government Council, Hon. Mrs. Mary Illah Otoro, on Monday warmly received members of the Catholic Women Organization (CWO), Holy Trinity Parish, Ogboja, during a courtesy visit to her office following her recent appointment. The visit, which was marked by prayers, thanksgiving, and words of encouragement, underscored the strong relationship between faith-based organizations and leadership in promoting community development within Ogoja Local Government Area. The delegation was led by Mrs. Agnes Osang, President of Holy Trinity Central Station, alongside notable members including Mrs. Veronica Abashi, Mrs. Lucy Asue, Mrs. Lucy Eweh, Madam Philomena Nku, Mrs. Cecilia Aruku, Mrs. Blessing Ekunke, Mrs. Mercy Audu, and Mrs. Janet Sunny Ntol. During the visit, the women offered prayers for divine wisdom, strength, and guidance for the Vice Chairman as she begins her new responsibility in public service. Responding, Hon. Otoro e...
Across the state, Ward Development Officers who also serve as Special Assistants have played a critical role in grassroots engagement. These individuals are not distant actors; they are embedded within communities, working closely with citizens to mobilize support, communicate government initiatives, and drive development efforts where they matter most.
However, their omission from the official stakeholders’ lists has raised concerns about representation and inclusiveness. This is not merely an administrative oversight, it touches on the broader principle of ensuring that every key contributor to grassroots development is recognized and included in decision making structures.
Ward Development Officers serve as vital links between government and the people. Their responsibilities often include:
Facilitating community engagement and feedback
Supporting the implementation of government policies
Mobilizing citizens for developmental initiatives
Strengthening political and administrative structures at the ward level
Excluding such critical actors risks weakening the very foundation of grassroots governance. When those closest to the people are not adequately recognized, the system loses an important layer of connection and accountability.
There is a growing call for the immediate inclusion of these officers in the stakeholders’ lists, in line with the principles of fairness, unity, and participatory governance. Inclusive leadership is not just about representation at the top—it is about ensuring that every level of the system reflects the voices and contributions of the people.
For Cross River State to continue advancing in community-driven development, it is essential to maintain structures that are both inclusive and functional. Recognizing all relevant stakeholders—especially those actively working at the grassroots—will strengthen trust, improve coordination, and enhance overall impact.
Grassroots development can only succeed when every voice is acknowledged and every contributor is valued. As the conversation continues, there is hope that necessary adjustments will be made to reflect a more inclusive and representative framework.
True development begins when every voice at the grassroots is recognized.
Hon. Stephen Egar Ayim
Rural Development Officer,
Ekajuk Ward 1.
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