Abia and Akwa Ibom States preached peaceful co-existence between Ikot Udo and Akirika Obu neighbouring communities amid boundary dispute.
This follows lingering crisis between Ikot Udo, Ika Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom and Akirika Obu, Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia arising from a road constructed by the Abia government but perceived by Ikot Udo people as a trespass to their land.
On Monday, March 17, Akwa Ibom Deputy Governor, Senator (Dr) Akon Eyakenyi, and Abia State Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu met at the Government Primary School, Ikot Udo village for resolution of the dispute.
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Senator Eyakenyi stated that the boundary dispute is currently under consideration by the justice system and the National Boundary Commission reiterated the commitment of Akwa Ibom State government to pursue peace.
She expressed optimism for an amicable resolution to delineate the proper boundary between the two states.
“We’re here for a purpose, and the purpose is to preach the good gospel of development, peace, and unity.
“In Akwa Ibom State, the Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, is known as a peace-loving leader who goes out of his way to pursue the cause of peace and development of the rural sector through infrastructure, healthcare, and education.”
On the urgency of addressing the conflicts, she stated, “The reason being that the people in the rural sector commit their votes to us towards these dividends. When we heard about the crises between the communities over road construction, my colleague and I agreed to come here today to appeal for peace.”
Senator Eyakenyi noted that it was proposed that construction should begin from the Abia State side, allowing both governments adequate time to resolve the matter.
“If the Akwa Ibom State Government decides that Abia State government can go ahead with the construction to link both communities, but not claim ownership of the land, or to end the construction on its own axis, it will be communicated to you,” she assured.
Acknowledging the long-standing disputes that have led to regrettable casualties, she confirmed, “The case is in court, and the NBC has intervened to propose a final field tracing to determine the correct boundary.”
She, therefore, sued for peace between the two communities as killing each other would not resolve the issue.
In his remarks, the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu echoed the need for peace, emphasizing the role of mutual respect and cooperation between the communities.
He underscored the idea that development should be embraced for the benefit of all.
“As a people, let us remember we are first of all, Nigerians. People cross borders, even internationally. Borderlines are meant for administrative purposes only. Development should always come first.
“The Abia State Government is building a road into the Akwa Ibom area. It is not trying to displace anybody. It’s just development,” he said.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, Chairman of Ika Local Government Area, Mr. Utibe Nwoko, had stated that the people of Ikot Udo Ika are peace loving citizens of Akwa Ibom.
He stated that they were satisfied with the developmental agenda of the Akwa Ibom State government only, reiterating his people’s request that the road construction from Abia State government be halted.
The community’s written report was read by Elder Sunday Elijah Oyomete, to officials of both states.
Accompanied the Deputy Governor were the Commissioners for Internal Security and Inland Waterways, General Koko Essien (rtd); Lands, Captain Iniobong Ekong (rtd) and Women Affairs, Mrs. Inibehe Silas. Others were the State Surveyor-General, Mrs. Emem Isang; Special Assistant On Boundary Matters, Elder Okokon Ufi, Permanent Secretary office of the Deputy Governor, Mr. Joseph Esidem, among others.
