The National Boundary Commission (NBC) has stepped in to mediate an escalating boundary dispute between Abia and Cross River states, urging for restraint and peaceful coexistence among the affected communities. The call for peace comes after violent clashes between the Isu community in Abia State and the Ukwa Mbiabong Ukwa Eburutu community in Cross River State, which tragically led to the loss of several lives.
The conflict, which unfolded on January 4 and 5, 2025, has sparked alarm among local leaders and residents in both states. In a statement issued from the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, NBC Director-General, Mr. Adamu Adaji, condemned the violence, emphasizing the unacceptable nature of the clashes that have left many families in distress.
“This tragic event is deeply saddening, and the loss of lives is utterly condemnable,” said Adaji, expressing his condolences to the communities impacted by the violence. “The NBC stands firmly against any form of violence and remains committed to working towards peaceful resolutions in such disputes.”
The clash occurred between the two neighboring communities, with both sides reportedly engaging in violent confrontations over a long-standing dispute concerning their territorial boundaries. The situation has raised concerns over the fragile peace in the region, where tensions over land ownership and rights have simmered for years.
NBC’s Proactive Role in Peacebuilding
In an effort to mitigate the growing tensions, the NBC has reiterated its role as a neutral mediator in the ongoing dispute. The commission had previously convened a Joint Meeting of Officials in Calabar on December 11, 2024, which involved senior representatives from both states, including the Deputy Governors of Abia and Cross River.
Mr. Ikechukwu Emetu, the Deputy Governor of Abia, and Mr. Peter Odey, his Cross River counterpart, expressed their commitment to finding a peaceful and amicable resolution to the boundary issue. According to Adaji, both leaders acknowledged the need for cooperation and mutual understanding among the affected communities.
“Their willingness to collaborate is crucial in ensuring that the region remains peaceful,” Adaji stated. “During that meeting, we outlined key steps toward resolving the conflict, including plans for joint technical discussions and agreements on land-sharing between the communities involved.”
One of the key agreements reached during the meeting was the decision to share the disputed triangular land between Okon-Aku and Ikun communities, pending approval by the deputy governors of both states. This step, Adaji highlighted, is part of broader efforts to ease tensions and foster collaboration between the two states.
Upcoming Technical Meeting: A Hope for Lasting Peace
Looking ahead, the NBC is planning a critical Joint Technical Meeting on January 20, 2025, in Abuja. This session will focus on resolving land issues associated with the Abia/Cross River (AC) boundary, particularly the concerns surrounding the communities of Abia, Achara, and Biakpan. The meeting is also expected to address disputed points in areas such as Mbiabong-Ito and Isu, with both states required to submit supporting documents by the set deadline.
“We are hopeful that these upcoming discussions will help to bring clarity to the disputed points,” said Adaji. “Our goal is to ensure that every party involved is treated fairly and that the long-standing conflict is resolved in a manner that promotes peace and development.”
In addition to addressing land disputes, the commission has also focused on the rehabilitation and return of displaced persons from the Mbiabong-Ito and Isu sectors. A Joint Committee will be formed to support these efforts and facilitate the peaceful reintegration of communities affected by the violence.
The Role of Traditional Rulers and Community Leaders
As part of its comprehensive approach, the NBC has called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and security agencies to play an active role in maintaining peace in the affected areas. Adaji emphasized that these leaders must serve as mediators and encourage dialogue among their people, especially as the region prepares for the crucial January 20 meeting.
“The traditional institutions in both states are pivotal to fostering peace,” Adaji remarked. “We must all come together to support the peace process and ensure that any efforts toward resolution are not undermined by further aggression.”
The commission also urged security agencies to remain vigilant and take all necessary steps to prevent any further flare-ups of violence. With the focus now shifting to diplomacy and reconciliation, the NBC’s call for restraint is seen as a vital step toward defusing the tense situation.
The Future of Boundary Disputes in Nigeria
The ongoing dispute between Abia and Cross River highlights a broader issue faced by several states in Nigeria, where unresolved boundary conflicts continue to fuel violence and instability. The NBC, as the country’s primary body for managing such issues, plays a crucial role in ensuring that territorial disputes are addressed through peaceful negotiations.
“The NBC is not only concerned with the Abia-Cross River conflict,” Adaji stated. “We are committed to resolving boundary issues across the nation through careful surveying, unbiased assessments, and the promotion of dialogue over conflict.”
The director-general stressed the importance of building trust between state governments and affected communities, as well as ensuring that any resolution is beneficial to all parties. “We are optimistic that the steps we have outlined, especially the joint technical meetings and the commitment to dialogue, will lead to a lasting peace in the region,” he concluded.
