By Odey Ojeka
Troops of the Nigerian Army have been deployed to Ugep and Idomi communities in Yakurr LGA to restore peace and prevent further escalation of the renewed communal crisis.
On ground, the soldiers are engaging both communities, urging residents to lay down their weapons and avoid confrontation with security personnel.
“We are here to protect lives, not to fight you. Drop your weapons and embrace peace,” a senior officer told community members in Ijiman Ugep and Idomi Community.
Also intervening is the Cross River State Chief Security Adviser to Governor Prince Bassey Otu, who hails from Ugep. He made a direct appeal to his kinsmen to stand down and return home, warning against the destruction that conflict brings.
“My people war is not a good thing. War brings no gain, only pain and loss. Go back to your homes and allow peace to reign,” he said.
The combined presence of military and traditional leadership is gradually calming tensions, as residents begin to heed the calls for restraint.
Authorities continue to urge both communities to pursue dialogue and avoid any actions that could worsen the situation.
Converseer reports that the Cross River State Government had earlier ordered an immediate survey of the disputed boundary between Idomi and Ugep communities in Yakurr Local Government Area, in a decisive move to achieve lasting peace.
The directive followed a high-level peace meeting held in Calabar, convened by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, with key traditional rulers, clan heads, and stakeholders from both communities in attendance.
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At the meeting last weekend, the State Surveyor General was mandated to lead an on-site assessment of the disputed area. The exercise will be carried out jointly with representatives from Idomi and Ugep to ensure transparency, fairness, and community buy-in.
Deputy Governor Odey emphasised that the administration of Governor Sen. Prince Bassey Otu is committed to peaceful coexistence and will not tolerate actions that threaten the unity of Cross Riverians. He urged both communities to maintain calm and avoid any acts of provocation while the survey is ongoing.
Stakeholders at the meeting commended the state government’s swift intervention, describing it as a major step toward ending decades of tension and restoring brotherhood between the neighbouring communities.
The government reiterated that the final boundary demarcation will be based on verifiable data from the survey and historical records, with the goal of a permanent resolution.
