A fresh wave of violence has erupted along the Akwa Ibom and Cross River State border, leaving at least two people dead and several others missing following an early morning attack on Monday, May 13, 2025.
The attack occurred in Oku Iboku, a coastal community in Itu Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom, and was allegedly carried out by armed men from Ikot Offiong in neighbouring Odukpani LGA, Cross River State. Witnesses said the attackers targeted fishermen, farmers, and residents, forcing many to flee.
The long-standing boundary dispute between the two communities has repeatedly led to deadly clashes over the years, despite government efforts to mediate.
Raising the matter at plenary on Tuesday, Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Kufre Abasi Edidem, called for urgent security intervention. He urged the state government to establish a permanent naval base and increase gunboat patrols along the volatile coastline to prevent future attacks.
Edidem also appealed to the House to work with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and other relevant bodies to send relief to the affected families.
The Speaker, Udeme Otong, condemned the violence and stressed the government’s responsibility to protect lives and property. He directed the Clerk of the House to notify the state government for swift action.
The House passed a resolution calling for stronger security presence and humanitarian assistance as local leaders seek long-term peace in the area.
