Tension gripped Obong community in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State after irate youths, reportedly former employees of Akamkpa Quarry Limited, unleashed a violent attack on company property and the residence of a local chief.
The chaos began when about nine sacked workers, allegedly armed, blocked access roads to the quarry in protest over what they claimed was their unjust dismissal. The situation escalated dramatically as the aggrieved group stormed the home of a community leader, holding several workers hostage, including Indian nationals employed by the firm. Company vehicles were vandalized in the rampage, and the chief’s house was set ablaze.
The Cross River State Commissioner of Police, CP Rashid Afegbua, swiftly deployed tactical units to the scene. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Irene Ugbo, the responding officers came under attack as the hostile youths pelted police vehicles with stones and fired locally made pistol pellets, injuring several officers.
“The police responded by engaging the attackers, arresting some suspects, and recovering one long automatic locally made rifle, a locally made pistol, a machete, and several expended cartridges,” Ugbo stated.
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CP Afegbua warned against any attempt to confront law enforcement during lawful operations, stressing that such actions could lead to casualties. He also urged community leaders to caution their youths against violent protests, noting that investigations into the incident are ongoing.
The violent confrontation has left the community in shock, with security forces maintaining a strong presence to prevent further escalation.
