Former House of Representatives aspirant for Ikom/Boki Federal Constituency, Pius Abang, has distanced himself from allegations linking him to the sponsorship of violent attacks connected to the recent communal clash between Boje and Isobendeghe communities in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State.

A few days ago, violent clashes broke out between the two communities, reportedly triggered by longstanding boundary disputes and competing claims over farmlands. The conflict resulted in the destruction of properties, displacement of residents, and a growing atmosphere of fear.

Armed youths from both sides were said to have engaged in retaliatory attacks, prompting the intervention of security agencies and calls for peace from community leaders and the state government.

Speaking to journalists via telephone from Ikom on Saturday, Abang categorically denied any involvement in the crisis, describing the accusations as baseless and politically motivated.

Abang, who contested the 2023 House of Representatives election on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) before defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC), said it was illogical to believe he would sponsor violence in a community where he has substantial agricultural investments.

“I own several hectares of cocoa farmland in Isobendeghe. It would be senseless for me to jeopardize my livelihood by instigating violence in an area that sustains my business,” he stated.

The former timber merchant turned farmer disclosed that he had not been able to access his farm since May 15, 2025—his birthday—when four men allegedly from Boje stormed his cocoa plantation and threatened his life.

He emphasized that farming is now his primary source of income, especially after losing his timber business due to what he described as unfavorable government policies. “I have no reason to fuel any conflict. I stand to lose, not gain, from unrest in that area,” he said.

Abang alleged that the claims were the handiwork of political rivals working to discredit him ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to him, these individuals have resorted to hiring people to spread false narratives through social media and online blogs in a bid to tarnish his image.

“As a law-abiding citizen, I have petitioned the Commissioner of Police, requesting a thorough investigation and his urgent intervention,” he noted.

He also refuted claims made in an article published by a Calabar-based blog, which alleged that a certain “Jerry”, purportedly involved in the conflict, was his personal assistant.

“That is entirely false. I do not have a personal assistant named Jerry. I’m not currently holding any public office, and there is no such person on my payroll,” he clarified.

Abang urged those seeking justice to use legal and peaceful means rather than resorting to smear campaigns and threats.

“Anyone with a genuine grievance should approach the courts. Resorting to character assassination and life-threatening actions only undermines the peace and security we all desire,” he advised.