Two residents of Ukwa Eburutu in Cross River State have been reportedly killed during a fishing expedition following an alleged attack by assailants from neighboring communities. The tragic incident occurred on Friday with one of the victims reportedly beheaded and his head taken away by the attackers NEGROIDHAVEN can report.
According to sources familiar with the situation, initial accusations were directed at the Afikpo people in neighbouring Ebonyi state, but they have since denied involvement, instead attributing the attack to individuals from the Isu community in Abia state. The altercation has further fueled boundary tensions in the region, which has long been marred by disputes and periodic bouts of violence.
A local resident, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed frustration over the persistent conflicts, stating, “I don’t know when this war will end. These disputes have hindered development in the affected communities.” He advocated for the intervention of the National Boundary Commission and suggested the establishment of a military barracks at the disputed boundary to restore peace and security.
Another resident noted that past tensions between the Isu and Utuma communities in Abia state may have contributed to the escalation. “Ukwa has reportedly supported Utuma in previous conflicts with the Isu. While the attack could have been carried out by the Afikpo people of Ebonyi, there’s also a possibility of collaboration with the Isu,” the source said, calling for thorough investigation by security agencies.
Feelers suggest the urgent need for intervention from state and federal authorities to address the underlying causes of these boundary disputes. Stakeholders from affected communities in both Abia and Cross River have called for dialogue, investigation, and increased security presence in the area to prevent further loss of lives and property.
Efforts to reach security agencies and community leaders for comments were unsuccessful at the time of this report.
