Boundary: FG sues for peace as Abia, Cross River renew hostilities 

The National Boundary Commission (NBC) has called for peaceful coexistence among border communities in Abia and Cross River states as tension escalates.

The Director-General, Adamu Adaji, made this appeal following fresh violent clashes between the Isu community in Arochukwu Local Council of Abia and the Ukwa Mbiabong Ukwa Eburutu community in Odukpani Local Council of Cross River, which claimed lives this month.

In a statement, yesterday, the Head of Information and Public Relations, Efe Ovuakporie, condemned the killings and extended condolences to the affected communities.

The statement urged all stakeholders to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could undermine ongoing boundary resolution efforts.

NBC particularly urged traditional rulers, community leaders and security agencies to collaborate in fostering peace and ensuring productive discussions ahead of the January 20 meeting.

The commission recalled its proactive measures towards the resolution of the boundary dispute, which included the Joint Meeting of Officials (JMO) on the Abia-Cross River boundary held on December 11, 2024, in Calabar.

The statement also recalled that in the meeting chaired by Adaji, it outlined key steps towards resolving the disputes in the affected areas.

According to the commission, steps including the agreement to share the disputed triangular land between Okon-Aku and Ikun communities, subject to approval by the deputy governors, were proposed.

The Guardian gathered that the meeting also considered the submission of documents supporting claims over disputed points AC19 to AC23 (Mbiabong-Ito and Isu areas) by January 20, and the formation of a joint committee for the rehabilitation and return of displaced communities in the Mbiabong-Ito/Isu sector.

The DG further disclosed that the NBC used the opportunity to reiterate its role as a neutral mediator committed to fairness, consensus, and fostering sustainable peace, where It emphasised the importance of dialogue over violence, stressing that any act of aggression would counter efforts to attract development and resolve disputes.

As preparations for the next joint technical meeting progressed, Adaji appealed to all stakeholders to prioritise peace and remain patient as the commission works towards finalising boundary resolutions, stressing that the efforts would pave the way for stability and lasting peace in the region.