Residents of Ekorinim 1 Housing Estate in Calabar, Cross River State, have raised concerns over recurring robbery incidents in their neighbourhood, despite the heavy presence of armed policemen around Governor Bassey Otu’s private residence which is located in the area.
The residents said several houses within the highbrow neighbourhood had been burgled in recent weeks, with robbers carting away valuables.
Their complaints have raised questions about the effectiveness of security arrangements around the governor’s residence, which is protected by armed policemen and two roadblocks.
Otu has operated from his private residence for nearly three years while his official residence, Peregrino Lodge, undergoes renovation.
Some residents, shop owners, tricycle operators and passersby who spoke with DAILY POST alleged that the heavy security presence was largely concentrated around the governor’s immediate surroundings, leaving other parts of the estate vulnerable.
One of the residents, Madam Winifred Omini, said robbers attacked two houses in a nearby street last week.
"Last week, robbers attacked two houses behind this street and stole valuables. They constantly break into houses in this neighbourhood.
"People assume that because the governor lives here and there are many policemen around, security problems should not occur. But that is not the situation. Security is 75 per cent," she said, adding that youths in the area were often suspected of involvement in the attacks.
Another resident, Martin Robert, confirmed the complaints, saying his neighbour's apartment was recently burgled.
"It's true. Recently, they robbed my neighbour's apartment and carted away his air conditioner and freezer," he said.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Eitokpah Sunday Akata, questioned whether the incidents had been formally reported to the police.
"Was there really any report made to the station, or any recent incidents?" he asked.
Calabar: Gov Otu’s neighbours lament incessant robbery attacks