A political crisis has erupted in Akamkpa Local Council, Cross River State, following a violent communal conflict in Iko Esai that has drawn accusations between Patrick Aidam, former Personal Assistant to the Deputy Leader of the Akamkpa Legislative Council, and Felix Akposi, Executive Chairman of the council.

In a resignation letter dated February 27, 2025, Aidam announced his decision to step down, citing threats to his life and accusing Akposi of failing to protect the people of Iko Esai amid escalating violence.
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Aidam alleged that since February 9, violence in Iko Esai had claimed lives, destroyed homes and farms, and displaced residents, while the council chairman allegedly remained indifferent.

Speaking at the NUJ Etim Bassey Press Centre in Calabar, alongside his lawyer, Ogbiji Ogbiji, Aidam said: “My community, Iko Esai, has been left in ruins. The very person who should ensure our safety as the chief security officer of the LGA has instead allowed division, destruction, and bloodshed to fester. ”

He further alleged that the Clan Head of Iko Esai, Chief Obio Arong Owal, whose family members were reportedly killed and his property destroyed, is currently in detention, while those responsible for the violence remain free.

Responding, Akposi dismissed the accusations as baseless and politically motivated, alleging that Aidam played an active role in the conflict by taking sides and instigating retaliatory attacks, including the burning of cocoa farms.

“It is appalling that Mr Aidam, in a bid to mask his role in this crisis, has resorted to sensationalism and outright falsehoods. The violence in Iko Esai did not start under my watch, but I have done everything within my power—deploying security forces, engaging with both factional leaders, and ensuring the police conduct a fair investigation,” Akposi stated.

He clarified that both factional leaders, Chief Owal and Chief Esira, had been arrested and handed over to the police for interrogation. He added that the Cross River State House of Assembly is reviewing the crisis, with a hearing scheduled for next week.

Okon Owuna, representing Akamkpa 1 Constituency, revealed that the conflict first surfaced in 2022 and was addressed through peace efforts he initiated. However, he expressed surprise that the crisis had resurfaced.

Owuna said he moved a motion of urgent public importance in the House, urging the government to act swiftly to de-escalate the conflict. He further recommended dissolving the current council and forming a new executive committee to restore peace.

He stressed the need for proactive measures to prevent further destruction and ensure stability in Akamkpa 1 Constituency.
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