A fresh outbreak of violence at the Akwa Ibom-Cross River boundary has left two persons dead and several others missing following an attack by suspected armed assailants from Ikot Offiong community in Odukpani LGA, Cross River State, on Oku Iboku community in Itu LGA, Akwa Ibom State.
The incident occurred on the morning of Monday, May 13, 2025, when the armed group reportedly invaded the coastal settlement, targeting fishermen, farmers, and residents.
During plenary at the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Deputy Speaker Kufre Abasi Edidem raised the matter under Matters of Urgent Public Importance, calling for enhanced security measures in the conflict-prone area.
“He also urged the House to liaise with NEMA, SEMA and other agencies to provide relief materials to affected families,” Edidem stated.
The House unanimously condemned the attack, with Speaker Udeme Otong emphasizing the government’s constitutional obligation to safeguard citizens.
“The government has a duty to protect lives and property,” Speaker Otong declared, directing the Clerk of the House to formally notify the state government for immediate intervention.
The deputy speaker specifically advocated for:
– Establishment of a permanent Navy base in the area
– Deployment of additional gunboat patrols
– Emergency relief assistance for displaced persons
This latest clash revives longstanding territorial disputes between the neighboring communities, with previous conflicts resulting in casualties and property destruction. Security agencies are yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident or reported casualties.
The Assembly’s resolution comes as affected families await government action to prevent further escalation of violence in the boundary region.
