A 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 related to the recent communal clash between Boje and Isobendeghe communities in Boki Local Council of Cross River State.
Violent clashes recently erupted between the two communities, allegedly triggered by longstanding boundary disputes and competing claims over farmlands. The conflict led to the destruction of property, the displacement of residents, and heightened tensions. Armed youths from both sides reportedly engaged in retaliatory attacks, prompting interventions by security agencies and appeals for peace from community leaders and the state government.
Speaking to journalists via telephone from Ikom on Saturday, Abang denied any involvement in the crisis, describing the accusations as baseless and politically motivated.
Abang, who contested the 2023 House of Representatives election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) before defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC), argued that it was illogical to suggest 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 jeopardise 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 emphasised that farming is now his primary source of income, particularly after losing his timber business due to what he described as unfavourable 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 accusations were the handiwork of political rivals attempting to discredit him ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to him, these individuals had resorted to hiring people to spread false narratives through social media and online blogs in an attempt to tarnish his image.
“As a law-abiding citizen, I have petitioned the Commissioner of Police, requesting a thorough investigation and urgent intervention,” he noted. He also refuted claims made in an article published by a Calabar-based blog, which alleged that a “Jerry,” purportedly involved in the conflict, was his 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 adopt legal and peaceful means rather than engaging in 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.
