Ukorebi Esien | February 2, 2026
OBUDU — Community leaders and residents of Obudu have showered praises on Hon. Peter Akpanke followed the commissioning of a three-classroom block in the area, describing the lawmaker as "our eye" for his consistent attention to grassroots educational development.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Chief Emmanuel U Adie, the Village Head of Kemia in Kumbong Bette clan, said the newly constructed classrooms have brought renewed hope to the community and significantly improved learning conditions for pupils.
"We appreciate him seriously, one hundred percent. The whole of this place is grateful. Akpanke is our eye in this community. This classroom is for our children, and there is no substitute for education," the traditional ruler said.
The project, which replaces dilapidated and overcrowded learning spaces, has already begun to reverse years of decline in the school, with parents reportedly withdrawing their children from distant schools to re-enroll them in the community school.
Another community member, Eunice Ateshi described the intervention as unprecedented.
"There is nobody in this community or elsewhere who has done what he has done for us. Because of this building, many children have returned to this school. Before now, classrooms were leaking and children had no proper place to sit," she said.
While commissioning the facility, Hon. Akpanke said his intervention in education was driven by personal history and a deep sense of responsibility.
"I am a teacher's son, so it is incumbent on me to do things that link to education. My father was once a headmaster of this school; that is why I am starting from here," he stated.
The lawmaker further announced additional support for the pupils, including the provision of new school uniforms, desks, writing materials, school bags, and a one-term scholarship for 16 pupils who participated in the event.
"From today, you are my children. I want you to be bold, to always come out and showcase yourselves. Make me proud and make your parents proud," Akpanke told the pupils.
Students and teachers expressed joy over the project, noting that the new classrooms have eased congestion, improved comfort, and created a more conducive environment for learning.
.In their welcome address, the community expressed deep appreciation for the visit and interventions, describing the occasion as a moment of pride and renewed hope for the people. They commended Akpanke for prioritising education as a tool for long-term development, noting that the projects reflect a genuine understanding of the community's needs and aspirations. According to them, the initiative goes beyond infrastructure, as it restores confidence in leadership and reassures the people that their voices are being heard.
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