By Frank Ulom
The Chairman of Yakurr Local Government Area, Yibala Igri Inyang, has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the traditional leadership and community heads of Ugep and Idomi to identify individuals allegedly responsible for reigniting tensions between the two communities.
In a press release on Monday, Inyang expressed concern over reports of renewed threats and activities capable of disrupting the fragile peace recently restored between the neighbouring communities.
He described the development as disappointing, noting that the local government, traditional rulers, security agencies and other stakeholders had invested significant efforts in promoting peace and reconciliation between the communities.
According to the chairman, both communities had previously participated in a peace meeting convened by the Yakurr Local Government Council, where resolutions aimed at fostering lasting peace, unity and stability were unanimously adopted.
He said one of the resolutions provided that any individual or group found circulating false, misleading or unverified information capable of inciting violence or causing unrest would be identified and sanctioned. Another resolution stipulated that where perpetrators of any future crisis could not be identified, the traditional leadership of the affected community would be held accountable.
“In line with these resolutions and following recent developments, I hereby direct the traditional leadership and community heads of both Ugep and Idomi communities to identify and present, within 72 hours (3 days) of the issuance of this statement, the individuals responsible for actions, statements or activities reigniting hostilities between these two communities,” Inyang stated.
He warned that failure to comply with the directive would attract legal consequences, adding that the relevant community leadership would be held accountable in accordance with the resolutions reached during the peace meeting and existing laws.
The council chairman reiterated that his administration would not tolerate any action capable of threatening public peace, endangering lives and property, or reversing progress made towards reconciliation.
As part of measures to prevent further escalation, he disclosed that security agencies had been placed on high alert and directed to take all necessary steps to maintain law and order in the area.
Inyang also urged residents of Ugep and Idomi, as well as other communities across Yakurr Local Government Area, to cooperate with security agencies and constituted authorities.
He appealed to residents to remain calm, law-abiding and committed to dialogue, restraint and peaceful coexistence while authorities address the situation.
The chairman reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding the security, unity and development of all communities within Yakurr Local Government Area.