Following the rising cases of boundary disputes and communal clashes in Akwa Ibom State, the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi has called on the leaders of the various affected communities to sheath their sword and embrace peace that will usher in development to their communities.
Senator Eyakenyi, who is the chairman of the state boundary committee, made the call during her maiden interactive meeting with Local Government Chairmen, paramount rulers and stakeholders of the affected communities, which took place at the Akpan Isemin hall, Government House, Uyo.
She admitted that she was aware of the various land disputes that had arisen between villages, as well as inter-state boundary issues and expressed hope that those crises would be resolved within the lifespan of current administration in the state.
While assuring that the new government would do its best to sustain the existing peace in the various local governments and communities in the state, Senator Eyakenyi said that Akwa Ibom state was known for peace.
She appealed to the stakeholders not to take laws into their hands before reporting any issue of concern, but should reach out to the security agencies or the government, adding that people should avoid anything that is capable of causing disunity.
“If there is any issue, I am accessible, I am open, let me know what is going on and we will intervene and ensure that peace prevails,” she assured.
The Deputy Governor, however, restated that paramount rulers and chairmen were given the mandate to sit together and proffer solutions to the issues, explaining that they have a great role to play in resolving boundary disputes in their various communities.
Earlier, the Chairman of Uyo Local Government, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, in his remarks, said as council chairmen, they were willing and always ready to play their roles to ensure they had peace in their domains.
On his part, the Chairman, Uruan local government , Surv. Iniobong Ekpenyong, explained that having historical facts of the places that are having issues and discouraging court cases were possible ways of resolving boundary disputes.
He urged the chairmen of councils, paramount rulers and village heads to always advocate for peace and see how issues can be resolved amicably through dialogue.
Speaking on behalf of the security agencies, CSP Hope Fubara, of the Nigeria Police, said that land matters were sensitive issues and should be handled carefully to avoid escalation.
He assured of the security agencies’ commitment to continue to partner with the state government to ensure lasting peace in the state.