Former Special Adviser on Cocoa Management and Control to ex-Cross River State Governor Ben Ayade, Oscar Ofuka, has alleged fresh attempts on his life, linking them to the controversial cocoa reforms he supervised under the last administration.
Speaking to journalists in Calabar, Ofuka said he recently noticed two suspicious vehicles—an ash-coloured Toyota Corolla with registration number ABJ/283/EM and a black unmarked car—lurking around his residence in Satellite Town.
According to him, the occupants of the vehicles trailed his movements and even interrogated bystanders about him.
“A few days ago, they tried to lure information from my little daughter, asking if she knew ‘Engineer Oscar’ and demanding my phone number,” Ofuka revealed.
He further explained that the same individuals later confronted his son and gatekeeper, insisting they wanted to strike a deal with the “cocoa man” in the compound.
Cocoa Reforms Behind Threats – Ofuka
Ofuka, who spearheaded reforms aimed at resolving decades-old disputes over royalties on more than 4,500 hectares of cocoa plantations, believes vested interests angered by his policies are behind the threats.
“Those who benefited from my reforms are the very people now trying to eliminate me,” he alleged, adding that he had proper documentation, including court orders and settlement agreements, to prove that his actions were in the interest of peace and development.
He also disclosed that one suspect arrested by security operatives confessed to being sent to monitor him.
“The man begged for his life when the police caught him,” Ofuka said, noting that authorities had advised him to leave the state temporarily for safety.
Security Agencies Dismiss Allegations
However, the State Security Adviser, Major General Obono Ubi (retd.), dismissed Ofuka’s claims, describing them as unnecessary alarm.
“There is no assassination plot. Security agencies are on top of their responsibilities to maintain peace and protect lives,” Ubi assured, urging the public not to panic.
As the controversy unfolds, questions remain over the safety of the former aide and the political tensions tied to Cross River’s cocoa sector reforms.
