By Pastor Bill Francis Bill
What was once dismissed by some as “AI-generated images” has now become undeniable reality. During a visit to Okpoma on Monday, Sir Francis Peters, KSJI, Board Director of the Cross River State Internal Revenue Service, personally inspected the Yala Local Government Secretariat after noticing scores of young people voluntarily clearing and restoring the premises. Having arrived in Yala over the weekend for a separate project inspection, he stopped at the secretariat after observing the remarkable gathering of youths. What he found confirmed what many residents had long maintained—the secretariat had indeed deteriorated and urgently required attention, while committed Yala youths had already taken it upon themselves to restore the environment.
Addressing the volunteers on behalf of concerned Yala stakeholders, Sir Francis Peters commended the youths for demonstrating uncommon patriotism, unity, and love for their community. He described their effort as proof that meaningful development begins when citizens choose responsibility over complaints. Praising their sacrifice, he announced his decision to donate 50 cutlasses to support the ongoing clean-up exercise and pledged his continued support for the initiative. He encouraged the youths to remain peaceful, united, and committed to building a cleaner and more beautiful Yala, assuring them that genuine community service would always receive recognition and encouragement.
Sir Francis Peters further urged the Executive Chairman of Yala Local Government Area, Elder Dr. Fred Okem, to seize the opportunity by formally engaging some of the dedicated volunteers as ad hoc environmental workers to ensure continuous maintenance of the council secretariat. According to him, such a step would not only preserve the renewed environment but also create employment opportunities for young people. He noted that the recent controversy surrounding the condition of the secretariat should remind public officials of the importance of transparency and accountability, adding that facts will always prevail over denial. He emphasized that what began as a moment of public criticism has now become an inspiring story of unity, selfless service, and hope for a better Yala.
REPORTING LIVE FROM OKPOMA, YALA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAMONDAY, 13TH JULY, 2026