By Assam Abia/The Evangelist news
The Ekid People’s Union has called on Governor Umo Eno to rehabilitate the long-abandoned Qua River Hotels in Eket, describing its current state as a blot on the evolving economic landscape of the area.
In a communique issued after the Union’s 2025 quarterly general meeting, the group made a passionate appeal to the governor to revive the iconic hospitality facility in line with the ARISE Agenda of his administration.
The communique was endorsed by prominent Ekid leaders, including Chief Nduese Essien (Chairman, Board of Trustees), Dr. Samuel Udonsak, Hon. (Barr.) Bassey Dan-Abia, His Majesty Edidem E.C.D. Abia (Paramount Ruler of Eket), and HRH Eteudo Ikot (Clan Head of Eket Offiong), among others.
Established in the late 1970s by the then Governor of the South Eastern State, Brig. Gen. U.J. Esuene, Qua River Hotels was once ranked among Nigeria’s best, known for its picturesque riverside location. However, it has now been left in ruins for over two decades, overtaken by criminal elements and illegal land speculators.
“We request His Excellency to take urgent steps toward restoring Qua River Hotels, which has become a den for criminal activity and illegal sales of its land,” the communique stated.
Although the hotel was privatized in 2001 during Governor Victor Attah’s tenure, its fate resurfaced during a thanksgiving service in February 2024. Senate President Godswill Akpabio revealed he had reacquired and redesigned the facility for redevelopment, expressing hope that Governor Eno would act swiftly to complete the vision.
Legislative attention was also drawn to the property in November 2023, when Hon. Dr. Nsidibe Akata raised an alarm on its deteriorating state. A subsequent inspection by a seven-member House committee confirmed the site had been converted into an oil bunkering base, among other illicit uses. Despite submitting its report, no government action has been taken so far.
Commenting on the situation, youth leader Iwaad James Muffat from Esit Eket said, “Governor Umo Eno has no excuse not to address the issue. Having lived and done business in Eket for over 30 years, it’s time he gave back meaningfully to the people.”
He stressed the urgent need for world-class hospitality infrastructure to match the growing status of Eket as a regional business and tourism hub.
“The Qua River Hotels should be redesigned into a five-star facility that befits the oil-producing headquarters of the senatorial district,” Muffat said.
