By Ohuakanwa chibuzo
Members of the Obolo ethnic community have called upon the Federal Government to apprehend the alleged sponsors behind the recent violent communal conflict in Akwa Ibom State.
In the wake of the recent bloody communal clash in Akwa Ibom State, which saw Ekid people in Eket and Esit Eket local governments clash with residents of Ibeno Local Government over the ownership of the oil-rich Stubbs Creek Forest Reserves, Obolo youth groups have called upon the Federal Government to take action against suspected sponsors of the conflict.
The conflict, resulting in loss of lives and property destruction, prompted the state government to intervene and assume control of the disputed land to prevent further violence.
However, the Obolo Youth Coalition Worldwide (OYC), Oro Youth Movement (OYOM), Ijaw Youth Council, Akwa Ibom State chapter, Ibeno Youth Leaders, and Eastern Obolo Youth Leaders jointly demanded the arrest and prosecution of alleged sponsors of the clash. The groups attributed the attack on Ibeno communities to the contentious remapping law of the state government, currently under litigation involving several local governments.
In a statement signed by prominent figures including Comrades Emmanuel Essang, Animisa Mark, Edet Eyo, and Edet Iyahakwa, the groups condemned the assault on Ibeno and specifically named Dr. Samuel Udonsak, Mr. Frank Archibong, Mr. Iniobong Robson, and others as the orchestrators of the violence.
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The statement accused the Akwa Ibom State Government of negligence, alleging that despite prior warnings about impending attacks, no preventive measures were taken, allowing the perpetrators to execute their plans.
Furthermore, the Obolo youth groups urged the Federal Government to instruct security forces deployed to Ibeno to refrain from using live ammunition against unarmed youths. They emphasized the need for professionalism in handling the situation, warning against any further attacks on their people.
In response, Mr. Nsudo Nsudo, spokesperson for Ekid People’s Union, refuted allegations that the conflict was instigated by Dr. Samuel Udonsak, Frank Archibong, and Iniobong Robson, denying any involvement by the trio in the unrest.
The call from Obolo youths underscores the escalating tensions and the urgent need for swift and impartial intervention to restore peace and stability in the region.
