In a decisive move to restore peace and order between warring communities in Ikom and Obubra Local Government Areas of Cross River State, the State Government has issued a raft of directives aimed at ending the lingering inter-communal hostilities. The crisis involves the Ekukunela and Alesi communities in Ikom, and the Odonget, Ochon, and Isabang communities in Obubra.

At a high-level peace and security meeting convened on Wednesday, 30 July 2025, the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, PhD, presided over a closed-door session at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Room, where resolutions were unanimously adopted to stem further violence and displacement in the affected areas.

Speaking shortly after the meeting, the Deputy Governor stated unequivocally that “the time has come to put an end to this unfortunate and avoidable crisis. No meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of violence and distrust. We must give peace a chance.”

Immediate Suspension of Activities on Disputed Land

Top among the resolutions was the immediate suspension of all human activity on the disputed land. Residents of the affected communities have been directed to desist from farming, building, or encroaching upon the contested area pending a proper boundary demarcation process.

“This is a government directive that must be obeyed to the letter,” Rt. Hon. Odey stressed. “Anyone found violating this suspension order will face the full weight of the law.”

Communities to Submit Documents

Community leaders from both Ikom and Obubra were also instructed to submit all relevant documents connected to the land and the ongoing conflict to the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, who also chairs the newly inaugurated Peace Committee. The deadline for submission is 12 noon, Monday, 1 August 2025.

Peace Committee Inaugurated

An eight-member committee has been constituted to investigate the root causes of the crisis and recommend sustainable, long-term solutions. The Deputy Governor charged the committee to carry out its assignment with the highest sense of duty and impartiality.

Palliatives and Committee Timeline

The Committee is also mandated to immediately brief the Deputy Governor on palliative measures for displaced persons and is expected to submit a comprehensive report within two weeks.

“Displacement adds another layer of pain and uncertainty for our people. Government must respond swiftly to the humanitarian needs of those affected,” Odey said.

Follow-Up Meeting Set for August 13

A follow-up review meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, 13 August 2025, to assess the level of compliance with the resolutions, monitor the Peace Committee’s progress, and intervene in any emerging issues.

Directive to Council Chairmen

In a stern final note, the Deputy Governor directed the Chairmen of Ikom and Obubra LGAs to ensure full enforcement of the resolutions in their capacities as Chief Security Officers of their respective councils. He warned that any dereliction of duty would attract immediate suspension from office.

“This government under Governor Bassey Otu will not tolerate impunity, nor will we fold our arms while lives and livelihoods are destroyed under our watch. The council chairmen must rise to the occasion,” he warned.

The meeting was attended by traditional rulers, youth leaders, community elders, and local government representatives from both Ikom and Obubra.