By Chief Okoi Obono-Obla
Cross River State remains one of the flashpoints of internecine intercommunal strife and violence in the country, largely emanating from disputes over land rights and, occasionally, chieftaincy matters. However, the Government of Cross River State has consistently exhibited a troubling lack of political will to boldly, fearlessly, courageously, and fairly settle these lingering disputes. The result has been sporadic and periodic eruptions of violence that have wracked the peace and stability of the State, leaving in their wake senseless killings and the destruction of property.
It is difficult to comprehend why a Governor, having taken the Oath of Office and Oath of Allegiance—both profoundly solemn—would exhibit fear, indecision, and mindless politicking in addressing such disputes simply because he does not want to “rock the boat.”
In 2006, the communities of Ebijakara and Ebom, though cousins, fought bitterly, leaving Ebijakara devastated. To this day, successive governments have inexplicably failed, refused, or neglected to resolve this conflict, which has since spread to involve other Bahumuno communities in Abi Local Government Area. Several judicial commissions of inquiry and administrative panels have been constituted by government on this issue, but their reports continue to gather dust in cupboards of government offices.
Earlier this year, bloody clashes erupted between communities in Obubra and Ikom Local Government Areas, once again leading to loss of lives and property. Yet, as usual, the government of Cross River State has manifested ambivalence and nonchalance in resolving the matter. Disturbingly, there are rumours that one of the protagonists in the conflict hired terrorists to fight on its side, resulting in deaths. There is also speculation about the involvement of a ranking Army officer from one of the communities, allegedly lending support to ruthlessly deal with their neighbours.
What is most irksome is the government’s refusal, failure, or neglect to release the report of the Surveyor General of Cross River State, who was appointed to ascertain and delineate the boundary marks between the two Local Government Areas. As is often the case, this report appears destined to be permanently lost in the labyrinth of government documents on sensitive matters that demand urgency and alacrity.
Similarly, the report of the Peace and Reconciliation Committee set up by government to address the issues between the communities in Obubra and Ikom, and to clearly define their boundaries, has been left unattended. Instead, some officials appear to be sleeping over these reports and playing politics until another violent incident erupts.
It is profoundly sad that a government entrusted as custodian of welfare, peace, stability, and justice would exhibit such unimaginable cluelessness over matters so sensitive and urgent. This neglect not only undermines the credibility of governance but also perpetuates cycles of violence that could otherwise be resolved with courage and fairness.
Conclusion:
The recurring intercommunal conflicts in Cross River State underscore the urgent need for decisive leadership and political will. Until government rises above fear and politicking to implement the findings of its own panels and committees, peace will remain elusive, and the people will continue to suffer needless tragedies.
Obono-Obla writes from Abuja
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