 |
| The two young men, Abi Effiong Oku and Inyang Nya Ewa, who were killed by suspected Isu assailants |
The National Boundary Commission (NBC) has called for peace and restraint following a violent attack that claimed the lives of two men and left over ten others critically injured in the Ukwa Mbiabong Ukwa community, Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State. The attack, reportedly carried out by suspected warlords from the Isu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State, occurred in the early hours of Saturday, January 4, 2025.
According to reports, the assailants ambushed villagers on their way to their farms, opening fire on the unsuspecting group. Two men, Abi Effiong Oku and Inyang Nya Ewa, were killed, with one of the victims gruesomely beheaded. Over ten others sustained severe injuries in the attack. This marks the second invasion of Ukwa Mbiabong Ukwa by the Isu community in six months, following a similar incident in May 2024 that resulted in the deaths of five people and destruction of property.
The attack has plunged the Ukwa community into fear, with residents calling on the government to address the security challenges and ensure justice for the victims.
In response, Adamu Adaji, Director-General of the NBC, emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence and constructive dialogue to resolve the ongoing disputes.
In a statement issued by Efe Ovuakporie, Head of the Information and Public Relations Unit of the Commission, NBC condemned the violence and urged all parties to cooperate with peacebuilding initiatives.
The statement said the Commission has already taken steps to address the boundary issues. These steps, according to the statement, include a Joint Meeting of Officials on the Abia-Cross River boundary held on December 11, 2024, at the Metropolitan Hotel in Calabar. During the meeting, stakeholders outlined resolutions such as sharing the disputed triangle land between the Okon-Aku and Ikun communities, pending approval from Deputy Governors.
It also said communities in the Mbiabong-Ito and Isu areas have been asked to submit supporting documents for their land claims by January 20, 2025. A joint committee has been formed to facilitate the rehabilitation and return of displaced individuals in the affected areas.
Adaji reiterated the Commission’s commitment as a neutral mediator and called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and security agencies to collaborate in fostering peace. He stressed the urgency of avoiding further violence and ensuring productive discussions at the January 20th meeting.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful resolutions and called on all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue over conflict to prevent further bloodshed.
Social Plugin