By CrossRiverWatch Admin
Abi: Reports reaching CrossRiverWatch suggests that no fewer than 3 lives have been lost following the renewal of hostilities between Ediba and Usumutong communities in Abi local government area of Cross River State.
It is still unclear what triggered the renewed hostilities with unconfirmed information suggesting that the Ediba people invaded the Usumutong community which is currently in a festive mood, celebrating the New Yam festival.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Irene Itohan said she is yet to be briefed on the matter and will need to confirm first before getting back to CrossRiverWatch.
She later informed CrossRiverWatch that: “Two persons died and one sustained a bullet wound but the situation is calm now.”
Also, the State Security Adviser, Jude Ngaji told CrossRiverWatch in a telephone conversation that: “It’s being on but it is a bit calm now”, adding that: ” Both sides have been asked to return home and they have done that.”
When asked about casualties, he said that: “None has been reported to me.”
The crisis between the two communities has raged on for years now with several peace talks initiated including one reportedly presided over by the Obol Lopon of Ugep, Obol Ofem Ubana.
Findings also revealed that the Usumutong community currently hosts the Ebijakara community which was sacked following a war with neighboring Ebom community which some suggest is to the chagrin of the Ebom people who align with the Ediba people.
Leave feedback about this