The Cross River State Government has rolled out a set of firm measures to end the ongoing communal clashes between the Ekukunela/Alesi communities in Ikom Local Government Area and the Odonget/Ochon/Isabang communities in Obubra Local Government Area.
The intervention followed a high-level peace and security meeting convened by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, with key stakeholders and community leaders at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Room in Calabar.
Five key resolutions were adopted to curb the violence, tackle the root causes of the dispute, and support displaced residents.
A major resolution was the immediate halt of all human activity on the disputed land. Residents were instructed to vacate and avoid any use of the area pending a formal boundary demarcation process.
Additionally, traditional and community leaders from both Ikom and Obubra were ordered to submit all relevant land documents to the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Anthony Owan-Enoh, who chairs the newly formed Peace Committee. The deadline for submission is 12 noon on Monday, August 4, 2025.
The state also inaugurated an eight-member Peace Committee, charged with investigating the conflict’s origin, proposing lasting solutions, and recommending interim relief for displaced persons. The committee is expected to present a detailed report within two weeks.
A follow-up meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, August 13, 2025, to evaluate the implementation of the resolutions and track the committee’s progress.
During the meeting, Deputy Governor Odey issued a strong warning against any acts of violence or disregard for government orders. He tasked the Chairmen of the two affected LGAs with enforcing the directives, noting that failure to comply would lead to their immediate suspension.
The government reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to maintaining peace, ensuring security, and safeguarding lives and property across the state.
