By Jonathan Ugbal
The path to sustainable peace in the boundary conflict between Bayalele in Bassang West and Ketting in Bendi communities of Obanliku Local Government Area in northern Cross River may be near following an intervention by two lawmakers from the area.
The member representing the Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku Federal Constituency, Hon. Peter Akpanke, a native of Ketting and the State Assembly member representing Obanliku in the 10th Cross River House of Assembly, Hon. Pius Ashakia have been meeting with both communities after the recent dispute, which led to the formation of a 14-man committee to ensure both villages iron out their differences.
Nestled between gorges and low laying areas of the Sankwala mountain range in the Oshie ridge, both communities have a plateau separating them. Locals often joke that it is shorter for them to trek between both communities than drive from one to the other.
“There is no land worth the killing of another. You can’t take a thing with you out of this world. The Bassang and Bendi people are brothers,” Akpanke said while addressing both communities during one round of the meetings in Bayalele.
“We are not here to adjudge a case. We are seeking a solid agreement from you all that there will be peace. Let us embrace peace, it is only peace that will bring development,” Akpanke said, adding that; “This is not about Bayalele and Ketting alone, I represent the federal constituency and I will do the same elsewhere.”
For Ashakia, there is a need for introspection. “Let us ask ourselves, what is really the problem? Is this the right thing to do?”
The State Lawmaker urged them to ensure that the image of both communities needs to improve.
The move has been commended by clergyman, Rev. Dr. M. A Ogar who says the idea of having an interface where people speak the truth will aid the healing process.
“The idea of the committee is the best we have had so far. I am happy that it will also have elderly people because no one expects the elderly to lie. After all, the Gospel of John urges us all to speak the truth always, and it will set us free,” the clergyman said.
On Friday, both communities trekked into the area of disputes and agreed to continue conversations about the foodstuffs that were planted, what to do with them when the harvest is due, among others.
Meanwhile, Mr. Akpanke told CrossRiverWatch that he will reach out to the relevant agencies of government to inform them of the steps taken to ensure the right thing is done.