Abang Appeals for Calm Over Boje, Isobendeghe Crisis
By Ekanem Asuquo
The member representing Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Victor Abang, has appealed for calm following the renewed communal conflict between Boje and Isobendeghe communities in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State.
Abang condemned the violence, describing it as unacceptable and a threat to the lives, property and livelihoods of residents, as well as the socio economic development of the affected communities.
The lawmaker urged residents on both sides to exercise restraint and resolve their differences through dialogue, stressing that continued violence would only deepen the problems confronting the communities.
“We must collectively work to ensure peace and harmony among our people. Cordial and harmonious coexistence is paramount to socio economic development and growth. We cannot continue with the callous destruction of lives and property every now and then. It is an embarrassment,” he said.
Abang commended the Nigerian Army, especially troops of the 13 Brigade, Calabar, and the Nigeria Police for their prompt response to the crisis and deployment of personnel to the affected areas.
He said the intervention had helped restore relative calm and provided an opportunity for community leaders and other stakeholders to begin working towards a lasting resolution.
He called on the security agencies to remain vigilant and sustain efforts to protect residents and prevent further escalation.
“I want to appeal to the security agencies to remain vigilant and continue to protect residents. I equally call on community leaders, elders, youths and other stakeholders to cooperate with the authorities and refrain from actions capable of escalating the situation,” Abang said.
The federal lawmaker also praised the Chairman of Boki Local Government Council, Eti Eka Beatrice Nyiam, for intervening and working to reduce tensions in the affected communities.
“I specifically thank our Local Government Council Chairman, Eti Eka Beatrice Nyiam, for rising to the occasion to de escalate the situation. As stakeholders, we must devise a lasting solution to this menace. Enough is enough,” he stated.
Abang urged the people of Boje and Isobendighe to reject violence and embrace peaceful coexistence, noting that development could not thrive where residents live under fear and insecurity.
He further called for sustained dialogue involving community leaders, traditional institutions, government authorities and other stakeholders to address the underlying issues behind the recurring clashes.
The latest confrontation reportedly erupted about two weeks ago, prompting the deployment of soldiers and policemen to the affected communities.
The Nigerian Army has since assumed security operations in the area, while the Cross River State Police Command said it had strengthened security and commenced engagement with relevant stakeholders to ease the tension.
The command urged residents to remain calm, exercise restraint and avoid acts capable of further worsening the situation.
