Uyo — At least two people have been reportedly killed, with several others declared missing, following a renewed boundary clash between Oku Iboku in Itu Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State and Ikot Offiong in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The violent incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, May 13, 2025, when armed individuals, allegedly from Ikot Offiong, attacked the coastal community of Oku Iboku. Victims included fishermen, farmers, and local residents, many of whom were caught unawares.
Raising the issue during Tuesday’s plenary, Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Kufre Abasi Edidem, described the attack as “a grave threat to peace and security.” He called for the establishment of a permanent Navy base and intensified gunboat patrols along the volatile boundary area to forestall further bloodshed.
Edidem also urged the Assembly to liaise with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), and other relevant bodies to provide relief materials for displaced and affected families.
In a unanimous resolution, the House condemned the violence and reaffirmed the government’s responsibility to protect lives and property. Speaker Udeme Otong directed the Clerk of the House to formally notify the Akwa Ibom State Government for immediate intervention and coordinated response.
The Oku Iboku–Ikot Offiong border area has witnessed recurring violence over the years, largely stemming from long-standing land disputes between the two communities.
