Land and boundary disputes have erupted into violence clashes across four communities in Cross River State, leaving several people dead and numerous properties destroyed. The affected communities; Ochon, Isabang, and Odonget in Obubra Local Government Area, and their Alesi neighbours in Ikom Local Government Area, have been engulfed in a prolonged and deadly crisis that continues to escalate.
Amid mounting tensions, local authorities are stepping up efforts to restore peace. The Chairmen of Obubra and Ikom LGAs, Hon. Kingsley Arikpo and Mrs. Mercy Nsor, have initiated regular dialogue and collaborative peace efforts aimed at ending the hostilities and fostering mutual understanding between the feuding communities.
In a bold move to quell the unrest, Hon. Arikpo convened a crucial town hall meeting with traditional rulers, women leaders, and youths from the troubled Ochon Ward. The gathering brought together representatives from the three most affected communities, Ochon, Isabang, and Odonget, as the council boss reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring lasting peace.
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Arikpo appealed to the youth to shun violence, emphasizing that the loss of lives and destruction of property only deepens the suffering of the people and threatens future development. He assured residents that the state government is actively working to demarcate boundaries and bring about a permanent ceasefire, emphasizing that lasting peace and justice remain top priorities.
Community leaders from the three embattled towns expressed gratitude for the chairman’s swift intervention, praising his efforts to deploy security operatives to their areas. They said the presence of security forces has helped restore a sense of calm and assured the chairman of their full cooperation in the reconciliation process.
The chiefs also pledged to support all government-led peace initiatives and avoid actions that could reignite hostilities, stressing their desire to end the cycle of violence and build a more secure and united future for the region.
