The Leader of Obudu Legislative Assembly, Honorable Eneji Sam Ashibi, has vehemently condemned the recent resurgence of communal clashes between the Abonkip community in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State and a neighboring community in Mbazerem, Vandeikya Local Government Area, Benue State. The two communities share a common border, which has for sometime now been a flashpoint for disputes.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Honorable Ashibi, who also serves as the Leader of Leaders in Cross River State, issued a passionate appeal to both warring factions to desist from the hostilities. He emphasized that such “nefarious activities” yield no benefits, only destruction of lives and the erosion of vital working relationships.
“I call on the people of Abonkip and neighboring Mbazerem of Benue State to sheath their swords and embrace peace for the overall betterment of the people,” Ashibi urged, describing the ongoing violence as “unnecessary.”
The renewed crisis, which reportedly led to the killing of a mechanic from Benue State, comes despite previous efforts to foster peace. Honorable Ashibi revealed that the Obudu Council Chairman, Honorable Peter Undiandeye, had previously led peace talks between the people of Obudu and Vandekeiya, resulting in settlements between the parties. He described recent attack following these agreements as deeply unfortunate.
“I condemn the killing of a mechanic, a native of Benue State as a result of the renewed communal crisis and this is not good for our people,” Ashibi stated. He acknowledged that although there have also been killings by the Tiv people, but stressed that “we do not need these crises at this time when all parties should embrace development.”
Ashibi commended the proactive stance of Cross River State Governor, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Otu, describing him as a “peaceful man” who has been “very proactive and supportive to helping us curtail these issues.” He further noted that the Council Chairman, Honorable Undiandeye, is on his way from Calabar to the affected area to further ameliorate the situation and put everything back in check again.
Authorities on both sides of the border have consistently called for calm and peaceful resolution, highlighting the need for sustained dialogue and effective conflict resolution mechanisms to prevent further bloodshed and foster lasting peace and development in the region.
These conflicts has existed for long and escalate from time to time, leading to loss of life, displacement of residents and significant disruption to relationships and economic activities.
