Residents of Etara and Ekuri Eyeyeng communities in Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State are facing a growing humanitarian crisis following a violent land dispute between neighbouring communities.
Leaders of the affected clan, Clement Omina and Richard Oku, raised the alarm on Thursday, urging Governor Bassey Otu to intervene swiftly as their people grapple with hunger, insecurity, and isolation due to the ongoing conflict.
The crisis stems from a protracted land clash between the Alesi/Ekukunela communities in Ikom and the Ochon/Isabang/Odonget communities in Obubra, which has led to the blockade of the only access route to Etara and Ekuri Eyeyeng. Armed groups reportedly patrol the area, preventing residents from reaching their farms or accessing medical care.
“We are on the brink of starvation,” said Omina. “Seasoning cubes now sell for N250 per piece—up from N20—because we can’t bring in food or supplies. People are trapped, and we urgently need government support.”
He called for immediate deployment of security forces to restore safety and facilitate humanitarian relief. The communities are pleading for food, medical supplies, and other essentials to ease the worsening conditions.
They also urged the state government to expand the mandate of its existing eight-member peace committee, headed by Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, to include the needs and concerns of Etara and Ekuri residents.
While the committee has ordered a halt to all activities on the disputed land, affected communities say more decisive action is needed to resolve the crisis and prevent further suffering.
