By Kelvin Ololo
The Paramount Ruler of Yakurr and Obol Lopon of Ugep, HRM Obol Ofem Ubana, has broken his silence on the recent communal violence between Ugep and Idomi, assuring residents that efforts are ongoing to restore peace, ensure security and pursue a lasting resolution to the age-long conflict.
In a statement dated June 13, 2026, and made available to CrossRiverWatch newsroom, the traditional ruler addressed growing concerns over his perceived absence during the crisis, insisting that he has been actively engaging government authorities, security agencies and community leaders behind the scenes to protect the interests of the Yakurr people.
Addressing residents of Umor Otutu, the monarch expressed sympathy to families who lost loved ones and property during the recent disturbances.
“Today, I address you with a heavy heart, sharing in your grief. While no words from this throne can truly alleviate the pain of these losses, I am committed to being present among you and taking meaningful action to address this situation,” he stated.
The crisis, which has heightened tensions in Ugep in Yakurr Local Government Area and neighbouring Idomi in Abi Local Government Area, has reportedly claimed lives, displaced residents and disrupted economic activities, particularly farming.
The monarch acknowledged public concerns about his visibility during the crisis but explained that his engagements in Calabar were focused on securing government intervention and engaging relevant stakeholders.
“I understand that there have been discussions in recent days regarding the perceived absence of your leadership during this time of need. I want to address this concern directly, as maintaining your trust in our leadership is important to me,” he said.
According to him, his engagements have involved meetings with the Cross River State Government, security agencies, the National Boundary Commission and leaders from Ugep.
He disclosed that efforts have also included boundary surveys and advocacy aimed at ensuring the safety of residents and holding accountable those responsible for fueling the conflict.
HRM Ubana assured families affected by the violence that the Ugep Traditional Council would provide support beyond words.
“To the families grieving the loss of their loved ones, I assure you that my council of chiefs will be reaching out to you in the coming days. We will explore how Ugep, united as one community, can support you not only with words but also with tangible actions during these challenging times,” he stated.
The monarch further noted that the conflict and the resulting curfew have significantly affected farming activities, businesses and daily life in the area.
He revealed that the Council of Chiefs had been directed to work closely with the Yakurr Local Government administration and security agencies to restore safe access to farms, workplaces and commercial centers.
“The curfew and prevailing tensions have adversely affected our daily lives, the planting season, and our overall peace of mind,” he said.
The planting season is particularly crucial for many residents of Ugep and surrounding communities, where agriculture remains a major source of livelihood.
The traditional ruler also appealed to young people to remain calm and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions. While acknowledging the anger and frustration among many youths following the recent events, he urged them to pursue justice through lawful channels.
“I recognise the bitterness that many of you feel at this moment. While such feelings are entirely understandable, how we choose to express that anger will ultimately determine whether Ugep emerges from this situation stronger or more fractured,” he said.
He called on youths to channel their energy into constructive engagements rather than acts that could worsen the situation.
On the boundary dispute itself, HRM Ubana reaffirmed Ugep’s commitment to pursuing a lawful and peaceful resolution.
He disclosed that government attention on the issue had increased and that an ongoing exercise involving the Surveyor-General was expected to contribute to resolving the dispute.
“Regarding the boundary dispute, know that Ugep’s stance is to pursue every legitimate avenue, with the full support of this throne, until this matter is resolved justly and conclusively,” he stated.
The monarch emphasized that the goal remains a solution that promotes peaceful coexistence between Ugep and Idomi communities.
Call For Patience
In his closing remarks, the Paramount Ruler assured residents that the traditional institution had not abandoned the community and would continue working towards restoring normalcy.
“This throne has not disregarded the concerns of Ugep, nor has it abandoned our community. It will not rest until our people can farm, trade, and move freely and safely across our beloved land,” he said.
He urged residents to embrace peace and give ongoing interventions an opportunity to yield results, expressing optimism that the community would emerge stronger from the crisis.
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