The member representing Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Victor Abang, has condemned the renewed communal clash between Boje and Isobendighe communities in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State.
Abang, who described the violence as unfortunate and unacceptable, said the recurring conflict was threatening lives, property, farmlands and the socio economic development of the communities.
In a statement, the lawmaker urged residents of the two communities to sheathe their swords, exercise restraint and embrace dialogue as a means of resolving their differences.
He said, “We must collectively work to ensure peace and harmony among our people. Cordial and harmonious coexistence is paramount to socio economic development and growth. We cannot continue with the callous destruction of lives and property every now and then. It is an embarrassment.”
Abang commended the Nigerian Army, particularly troops of the 13 Brigade, Calabar, and the Nigeria Police for their prompt response to the crisis and deployment of personnel to the affected communities.
According to him, the intervention of the security agencies had helped restore relative calm and created an enabling environment for stakeholders to work towards a lasting resolution.
He, however, urged the security agencies to sustain their presence in the area and remain vigilant to prevent further escalation.
“I want to appeal to the security agencies to remain vigilant and continue to protect residents. I equally call on community leaders, elders, youths and other stakeholders to cooperate with the authorities and refrain from actions capable of escalating the situation,” he said.
The lawmaker also commended the Chairman of Boki Local Government Council, Eti Eka Beatrice Nyiam, for her intervention and efforts to de escalate the crisis.
“I specifically thank our Local Government Council Chairman, Eti Eka Beatrice Nyiam, for rising to the occasion to de escalate the situation. As stakeholders, we must devise a lasting solution to this menace. Enough is enough,” Abang stated.
He urged the people of Boje and Isobendighe to reject violence and embrace peaceful coexistence, stressing that meaningful development could not take place in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity.
Abang also called for sustained dialogue involving the affected communities, government authorities, traditional institutions and other stakeholders to address the underlying issues responsible for the recurring clashes.
The latest crisis reportedly resurfaced about two weeks ago, leading to the deployment of soldiers and policemen to the affected communities.
The Nigerian Army has since taken over security operations in the area, while the Cross River State Police Command said it had intensified security measures and engaged relevant stakeholders to de escalate the tension.
The Police Command also appealed to residents to remain calm, exercise restraint and avoid actions capable of aggravating the situation.
