Nde village, situated in the Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State, now stands abandoned following the reported deaths of ten individuals, including a baby by herders.
Community leaders point to suspected bandits and herdsmen as the perpetrators behind these killings.
Over the past two months, the community witnessed five assaults by suspected armed bandits, resulting in over 30 individuals being held hostage.
Prince Etaba, a native of Nde, expressed his astonishment at the attacks while speaking with journalists.
He emphasized that the people of Nde never envisioned living in fear within the confines of their own homes..
“We can’t sleep at night for fear of another strike by these strange, violent men.
“The whole village has moved to our ancestral home in Old Nde where we migrated from to hide for fear of being taken hostage or even killed,” he said.
Another indigene, Desmond Abobo alleged that the attackers were Fulani herdsmen.
According to him, “They once made an attempt to settle in our community but we refused and chased them away.
“When you see them, you’ll know that they are Fulanis. Their accent when they speak indicates so.
“This matter is very serious and we are calling on the government to live up to its responsibility of protecting its citizens.”
Meanwhile, the police commissioner, Grimah Gyogon said they have strategized with other security agencies to contain kidnappings and such attacks in Ikom LGA.