After 20 years in exile, Cross River community seeks security cover for return

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Residents of the Ebijakara community in Abi Local Government Area of Cross River State, after being displaced for twenty years, have called on the state government to provide security protection to facilitate their return to their ancestral homes.

The community, compelled to escape due to ongoing communal conflicts in the Bahamono axis, stated that its members are still dispersed among nearby settlements even after several years of relative peace.

During a radio discussion on Pulse of Unity, a FAD FM programme in Calabar, community leaders made the appeal and emphasized the urgent need for government-supported resettlement.

Samuel Ogbodum, a community leader, spoke on the programme and stated that while peace initiatives have lessened tensions, displaced residents still need security guarantees before they can return.

He revealed that the community had officially informed the state government and security agencies of its intention to return on April 15, 2026, and had called for sufficient protection from the authorities.

“We have written to the government and security agencies to inform them of our intention to return to our ancestral home. What we are asking for now is adequate security presence to give our people the confidence to move back peacefully,” he said.

Ita Ben Itu, another representative, stated that the peace process had entered a crucial phase that necessitated direct government involvement.

He stated that although traditional leaders and peace organizations had maintained discussions for years, only strong government support could ensure a safe and enduring resettlement.

Community leaders pointed out that unresolved land disputes and limited access to farmlands continue to provoke the conflict. They emphasized that previous interventions by successive administrations were not fully carried out.

Nonetheless, they conveyed hopefulness regarding the prospect that Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s administration would guarantee a peaceful return of displaced individuals.

The show, presented by Ukorebi Esien and Dr. Efio-Ita Nyok, underscored how dialogue, mediation, and inclusive engagement can help prevent fresh violence and maintain peace throughout the state’s communities.

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