After CrossRiverWatch’s Investigation On Age-Long Communal Crisis, Stakeholders In Cross River, Ebonyi Begins Peace Talks

By CrossRiverWatch Admin

In the wake of CrossRiverWatch’s thorough investigation into the longstanding communal crisis affecting several communities in Cross River State and their counterparts in Ebonyi, stakeholders have commenced peace talks to address these enduring conflicts.

The investigation, unveiled on May 4, 2024, uncovered the tragic loss of over a hundred lives and extensive destruction of property.

The weak intervention from the state government exacerbated the situation, resulting in disruptions to basic education, livelihoods, and essential social services, including the destruction of markets and electricity infrastructure.

Communities such as Erei, Urugbam, Edu, Afono, Ekoli Edda in Biase Local Government Area of Cross River, and Ugwelu in Ebonyi respectively, resorted to arming themselves.

READ ALSO: Investigation: How Local Dispute Over Oil Palm Plantation Led To Bloodshed In Cross River Erei Communities

While the Cross River State Government has remained indifferent to the communal crisis, federal and state legislators, community leaders, and other stakeholders have embarked on peace talks, with plans underway to establish committees to permanently resolve the issue and facilitate the re-establishment of displaced communities.

A notable breakthrough occurred on June 1, 2024, with a successful peace meeting between the Erei communities in Cross River and the Ugwuelu community in Ebonyi State.

Ongoing discussions involve Urugbam, Edu, and Afono in Erei, who have been severely affected by the crisis. Further meetings concerning the Ekoli Edda Community are also in the pipeline.

Security operatives are closely monitoring these peace talks, and both parties have expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved.

RELATED STORY: Communal Crisis: Drop The Destructive Missiles And Embrace Peace In Cross River BY PATRICK OBIA

However, tensions have emerged within the Obum Community in Erei over the election of new youth leadership. The youth have raised concerns about alleged attempts by community elders to impose a candidate, insisting on their right to choose their representative.

At present, the matter has been reported to the Military Base in Urugbam community, and efforts are geared to resolve the conflict.

There is a prevailing fear that if not properly addressed, this discord could escalate into another crisis.