In a decisive effort to quell tensions and restore peace, the Cross River State Government has ordered the immediate suspension of all farming activities on the disputed land between Ekukunela-Alesi in Ikom Local Government Area and Odonget/Ochon/Isabang in Obubra LGA.
Governor Bassey Otu, who was represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made the announcement during a high-level peace meeting with leaders and stakeholders from the two feuding communities held in Calabar on Tuesday.
As part of measures to bring lasting peace, the state government has taken over the disputed land and will retain control of the area pending the outcome of boundary demarcation and conflict resolution efforts.
To address the root causes of the conflict, the government has constituted an eight-member peace committee, chaired by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh.
The committee is tasked with identifying both immediate and remote causes of the crisis and is expected to submit recommendations for a sustainable resolution.
Leaders and representatives from both Ikom and Obubra LGAs have been directed to submit all relevant documents and evidence concerning the land dispute to the SSG’s office to aid the committee’s work.
Governor Otu warned that the state would not tolerate any further acts of violence or disregard for official directives, stressing that the era of communal clashes must come to an end. He urged both parties to embrace peace and allow the government to mediate through lawful and structured channels.
The governor further mandated the chairmen of the affected local governments who serve as Chief Security Officers in their respective jurisdictions to ensure strict enforcement of the directives.
He warned that any failure to enforce the resolutions would result in immediate suspension from office.
The intervention marks a renewed commitment by the Cross River State Government to safeguard lives, restore order, and ensure peaceful coexistence between neighboring communities.
