By Frank Ulom
One person has been killed and several injured over a land dispute in Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State.
According to Philip Obin, Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on Digital Economy, the incident happened on Friday, July 4, 2026.
Obin alleged that the victim, Nkeruwem Ikoh (popularly referred to as Obong Ikor Obong), was shot dead in his farmland in Urugbam by armed persons suspected to come from Egbor Community in Erei South, all in Biase.
“Let it be on record that today, 4 July 2026, armed persons from Egbor Community in Erei South, Biase LGA, together with their collaborators, invaded the farmland of my community, Urugbam.
“During the unprovoked attack, Mr Obong Ikor Obong was shot and killed, while several other persons sustained gunshot injuries,” Obin stated in a Facebook post.
He also alleged neglect from the government following the conflict.
Confirming the incident, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, Police Public Relations Officer in the state, in a statement on Sunday, said the Command has commenced investigation on the matter.
According to ASP Eitokpah, “The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday, 4th July 2026, at about 3:00 p.m., when two farmers, Mr Nkeruwem Ikoh and Mr Ukam Ajah Okpan, both of Orugbam Community, Erei, were allegedly attacked and shot by unidentified gunmen while working on their farmlands near Egbor Community.
“The victims were rushed to the village for immediate assistance. Regrettably, Mr Nkeruwem Ikoh later succumbed to his injuries, while the second victim is currently receiving treatment. The deceased’s body has been deposited at Uwana Mortuary, Afikpo, Ebonyi State.
“The Cross River State Police Command assures members of the public that a thorough investigation is underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident, identify those responsible, and ensure they are brought to justice.
“The Command further appeals to residents of Orugbam, Egbor, and neighbouring communities to remain calm, refrain from taking the law into their own hands, and cooperate with the Police by providing credible information that may assist the ongoing investigation.”
Adding, “Further developments will be communicated as the investigation progresses.”