11 Houses Burnt, 15 Injured In Cross River Communal Conflict

According to The Vanguard; At least 15 persons have reportedly sustained bullet wounds, while 11 residential buildings were burnt following an alleged invasion of Oyoba village in Wanikade by the people of a neighbouring community, Ihetazi in Wanihem, Ukele North in Yala local government area of Cross River State.

The invasion, which resulted from a boundary dispute, caused the displacement of over 130 persons including women and children.

A visit to the area revealed destruction of foodstuff including yams, rice, garri, economic trees and household property such as sewing machines, electronics, as well as motorcycles and bicycles.

Also destroyed were sources of water such as streams and wells, which were poisoned with chemicals, debris and rocks.

Chief Christopher Okoko of Oyoba, whose property was also destroyed by the invaders narrated that their attackers came on Saturday, January 23 at about three o’clock in the afternoon, when most of the villagers were in the community market about a kilometre away and carried out the wanton destruction.

According to him, those who dared to challenge them were shot and wounded while the elderly, children and women were chased away from the village.

He said fifteen persons that sustained bullet wounds were being treated in various hospitals and clinics.

Chief Okoko described the attack as senseless and barbaric, stating that the invaders have lived for ages as brothers and have inter-married.

He said their action was capable of destroying the cordiality between the two communities.

A youth leader, Mr. Mathias Egede described the invasion as an act of war and that the security agents should bring the culprits to book.

He stated that the destruction of homes, yam barns and seed silos in an agrarian community depicted an intention to annihilate the community.

A woman Helen Idah, who spoke from where she was taking refuge with her children and relatives, said she feared for the lives of those who were married either side of the divide.

She urged the leaders of the warring communities to resolve the matter amicably to restore peace and guarantee economic and social progress.

Director-General of the State Emergency Management Agency, Mr. John Inaku, who assessed the damage described the destruction as massive and condemned the action.

While calling for peace, he expressed concern over the state of the internally displaced persons and assured of government’s intervention.