Joel Ajayi 

The National Boundary Commission (NBC) has called for peaceful coexistence among border communities in Abia and Cross River States amidst escalating tensions.

The Director-General, Surv. Adamu Adaji, made this appeal following violent clashes between the Isu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State and the Ukwa Mbiabong Ukwa Eburutu community in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, which claimed lives in early January 2025.

In a statement by Efe Ovuakporie, Head of the Information and Public Relations Unit, NBC condemned the killings and extended condolences to the affected communities. It urged all stakeholders to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could undermine ongoing boundary resolution efforts.

The NBC highlighted its proactive measures, including the Joint Meeting of Officials (JMO) on the Abia-Cross River boundary held on December 11, 2024, at the Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar.

The meeting, chaired by Surv. Adamu Adaji, outlined key steps towards resolving the desputes in the affected areas.

The steps included the agreement to share the disputed triangular land between Okon-Aku and Ikun communities, subject to approval by the Deputy Governors.

Other steps include plans to resolve land issues with respect to point Abia/Cross River (AC)15A (Abia, Achara, and Biakpan communities) at a Joint Technical Meeting scheduled for January 20, 2025, in Abuja.

Aside the foregoing, the meeting also considered the submission of documents supporting claims over disputed points AC19 to AC23 (Mbiabong-Ito and Isu areas) by January 20, 2025 and the formation of a Joint Committee for the rehabilitation and return of displaced communities in the Mbiabong-Ito/Isu sector.

The NBC used the opportunity to reiterate its role as a neutral mediator committed to fairness, consensus, and fostering sustainable peace. It emphasized the importance of dialogue over violence, stressing that any acts of aggression would counter efforts to attract development and resolve disputes.

The Commission also urged traditional rulers, community leaders, and security agencies to collaborate in fostering peace and ensuring productive discussions ahead of the January 20th meeting.

During the December 2024 meeting, Deputy Governors Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu (Abia State) and Rt. Hon. Peter Odey  affirmed their states’ commitment to an amicable resolution of the disputes.

Both leaders emphasized the need for peace and mutual understanding among the affected communities.

The NBC remains optimistic that its proactive approach, including its emphasis on accurate surveying and equitable solutions, will achieve a lasting resolution to the Abia-Cross River boundary continued disputes.

As preparations for the January 20, 2025, Joint Technical Meeting progress, the NBC has appealed to all stakeholders to prioritize peace and remain patient as the Commission works towards finalizing boundary resolutions. It is confident that these efforts will pave the way for stability and development in the region.

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