A renewed eruption of violence along the Abia and Akwa Ibom state border has claimed at least one life and destroyed property worth millions of naira, reigniting a long-standing land dispute between the Ariam Eleuelu community in Ikwuano LGA of Abia State and the Obot Akara community in Akwa Ibom State.
Senator Pledges Senate Intervention After Deadly Clashes
The latest clashes have prompted a swift response from Abia Central Senator, Austin Akobundu, who has pledged to escalate the matter to the highest levels of the National Assembly. Akobundu expressed his deep concern over the escalating violence and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
“This is a tragic situation,” Akobundu stated. “These are communities that share a border and, more importantly, share a history. This senseless violence must stop. I will be taking this matter directly to the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and imploring the Senate to intervene and find a lasting solution.”
Akobundu emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting the need for decisive action to prevent further loss of life and destruction of property. He assured his constituents that he would work tirelessly to ensure their safety and security. “I will be tabling this matter before the Senate as a matter of urgent national importance. We must do everything within our power to restore peace and normalcy to these communities,” he affirmed.
The senator also called for unity and understanding between the two communities, urging them to embrace dialogue and peaceful coexistence. “We are one people, bound by shared history and common interests. We must learn to live together in peace and harmony,” he implored.
Akobundu commended Ikwuano Local Government Area Chairman, Anthony Nzeribe Nwaubani, for his prompt response in mobilizing security personnel to the affected areas. He also extended his condolences to the family of the deceased and pledged his support to those affected by the crisis.
Nwaubani, who conducted an on-the-ground assessment of the damage, reiterated his administration’s commitment to peace and security within the local government. He appealed to the Abia State Government, National Assembly representatives, and federal agencies to collaborate in finding a permanent resolution to the protracted conflict.
Calm Restored, Say Police, But Tensions Remain High
Confirming the incident, Abia State Police Public Relations Officer, Maureen Chinaka, told SouthEast Reporters that law enforcement agencies were immediately deployed to the area to restore order. She assured the public that the situation is currently under control and that investigations are underway to determine the root cause of the renewed violence and bring the perpetrators to justice. Chinaka did not specify the number of casualties.
The renewed fighting underscores the urgent need for a lasting resolution to the border dispute. While security forces have managed to quell the immediate violence, the underlying tensions remain high, threatening to erupt again if not addressed comprehensively. The intervention of the National Assembly, as promised by Senator Akobundu, offers a glimmer of hope for a peaceful resolution and a return to normalcy for the affected communities.
