Two persons have been killed and property worth millions of naira destroyed in Odot Uyi community in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State following a violent escalation of a long-standing chieftaincy dispute.
The crisis, which centres on the contested position of Village Head of Odot Uyi, reached a breaking point in the early days of February, throwing the community into chaos and forcing residents to flee their homes.
Local sources said the residence of the Village Head was set on fire during the unrest. Chief Ntia Okon Bassey, 62, who is said to be the Village Head-elect, has been arrested in connection with the violence. Some members of the community have accused him of alleged fraudulent dealings involving communal funds, an allegation now under police investigation.
Another suspect, identified as Chief Okon Nyong, who was earlier reported to have gone into hiding, has also been arrested. However, the clan head of the community is still at large, according to security sources.
Police sources confirmed that the crisis intensified on February 2, 2026, leading to the deaths of two persons and the burning of several houses in the community. Officers from the Odukpani Police Division, supported by a tactical team and Mobile Police personnel, were immediately deployed to restore calm and prevent further violence.
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On arrival, security operatives reportedly found the community largely deserted, as residents had fled for safety, leaving behind livestock and personal belongings.
Confirming the incident, the Cross River State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah Akata, said the command was fully aware of the development. He disclosed that two suspects were currently in custody, while another key suspect remained on the run.
Akata added that investigations were ongoing to establish the remote and immediate causes of the crisis, identify all those involved and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The incident has renewed concerns over recurring chieftaincy disputes in parts of Cross River State, with community leaders and residents calling for timely intervention to prevent further loss of lives and destruction of property.
