Tensions in Ukwa East, Ika LGA: Abia, Akwa Ibom Governments Demand Peace Amid Land Dispute

The governments of Abia and Akwa Ibom States have called for peace between the warring communities of Akirika Obu in Ukwa East Local Government Area (LGA) of Abia State and Ikot Udo Ika in Ika LGA of Akwa Ibom State.

At a high-level meeting involving both state governments, the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Lekwachi Emetu, FNSE, and his Akwa Ibom counterpart, Senator (Dr.) Akon Eyakenyi, urged the communities to embrace development rather than engage in conflicts over land boundaries.

[caption id="attachment_187162" align="alignnone" width="1080"] Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Lekwachi Emetu, FNSE[/caption]

Speaking at the meeting, Deputy Governor Emetu emphasized that infrastructure projects should be welcomed rather than contested. He referenced the recent road construction project awarded by the Akwa Ibom State Government, which runs from Akwa Ibom through the Azumini axis to Aba in Abia State. Despite initial opposition from certain quarters in Ukwa East, the Abia State Government allowed the project to continue, stressing that development should not be hindered by territorial disputes.

"Our mission here is not land grabbing; it is about progress. This is the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and we use the same currency-naira. We should always remember that we are Nigerians first,ÔÇØ Emetu stated.

He also reassured both communities that the construction of the long-abandoned 12.6-kilometer Ohanze - Ntighauzu - Obete - Umuoha - Oberete - Akirika Obu road by the Abia State Government will be a game-changer in terms of economic growth for the region. He disclosed that the National Boundary Commission (NBC) will begin demarcation of the disputed area as soon as both governments finalize all necessary agreements.

"The NBC has the legal responsibility to establish the boundary as soon as Abia and Akwa Ibom finalize their positions. The two state governments must align to facilitate this process,ÔÇØ he added.

Emetu further revealed that both Deputy Governors have agreed to discuss with their respective Governors to finalize the road project's commencement, which will begin from the Abia State axis.

On her part, the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator (Dr.) Akon Eyakenyi, described Emetu as a peace-loving leader and reiterated the commitment of both state governments to fostering peace and unity.

[caption id="attachment_187161" align="alignnone" width="1080"] Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator (Dr.) Akon Eyakenyi[/caption]

"Our mission here is clear: we are here to preach peace, unity, and development. Communities should not hinder progress. Infrastructure such as roads, healthcare, and social amenities must reach rural areas for a better quality of life,ÔÇØ Eyakenyi stated.

She urged both communities to cease all hostilities, avoid violence, and prioritize peace, noting that further confrontations would only result in setbacks for both states.

She also confirmed that both Governors would engage in high-level discussions to determine the best path forward while expressing optimism that the NBC would expedite the boundary demarcation.

Adding their voices, the Chairmen of Ika LGA (Akwa Ibom) and Ukwa East LGA (Abia), Hon. Utibe Thomas Nwoko and Hon. Chibunna Akara respectively, reinforced that both communities share a common heritage and have no reason for conflict. They appealed for peace and urged residents to abide by the directives of the state governments.

The peace meeting was attended by top government officials from both states, security agencies, and traditional leaders.

[caption id="attachment_187159" align="alignnone" width="1080"] Tensions in Ukwa East, Ika LGA: Abia, Akwa Ibom Governments Demand Peace Amid Land Dispute[/caption]