By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar
Several clan heads, chiefs and other stakeholders in Ofatura and Ovonum communities in Obubra Local Government Area of Cross River State where there have been violence and bloodbath in the last week’s have spoken against and called for peace and forgiveness.
The traditional rulers and stakeholders of the Adun Kingdom spoke when they held a town hall meeting with the Member representing Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency, Mike Etaba as part of efforts to bring an end to the recurring communal crisis between the two communities.
The conflict was ignited over theft of cassava and ownership of a piece of land between the two sister communities.
Some of the traditional heads that spoke were Chief Egbe Akpan, Clan Head of Ababene and Second-in-Command in the Palace of Kwididen; Chief Abeng Ekam, Clan Head of Ofodua Waterside; Chief Amon Obo, Clan Head of Obubema; Chief Enang Vincent Erena, Secretary of the Ababene Clan Council and Clan Head of Onyadama; Pastor James Ojen, Youth Leader of Oderegha and Secretary of Adun Youths.
The DPO of Apiapum Police Division, DSP Bassey Elemi, blamed the actions of some youths and certain community leaders who, according to him, have shown disregard for constituted authority and peaceful coexistence.
The traditional dignitaries, however, pledged to work collectively with relevant authorities and community leaders to restore peace, prevent further escalation of the crisis, and provide lasting solutions to the conflict.
The MHR, Etaba expressed deep concern over the continuous destruction of lives and properties by the sister communities, whom he said ought to coexist peacefully and pursue collective development.
He urged them to desist from acts capable of further escalating the crisis, noting that the persistent conflict was de-marketing the Obubra LGA.
Etaba reminded the chiefs and stakeholders that peace remains the foundation upon which every meaningful progress can be achieved, stressing that no society can grow in an atmosphere of hostility and fear.
He recalled the various interventions initiated in the past toward resolving the conflict, including the setting up of a peace and reconciliation committee headed by former Council Boss in Obubra, Chief Hon. Alex Irek, with the current Secretary of Council, Prof. Atan Egor, serving as secretary.
He assured that he will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that peace return to both communities.
