After two decades of relocation, inhabitants of the Ebijakara village in Cross River State’s Abi Local Government Area have asked the state government to provide security cover so that they can return to their ancestral homes.
Despite years of relative calm, the community, which was forced to relocate following protracted communal violence in the Bahamono axis, claims its inhabitants are still spread across adjacent towns.
Community leaders made the call during a radio conversation on FAD FM’s Pulse of Unity in Calabar, emphasising the importance of government-backed relocation.
Speaking on the program, Samuel Ogbodum, a community leader, stated that while peace efforts had decreased tensions, displaced residents still needed security guarantees before returning.
He revealed that the group had formally informed the state government and security services of its intention to return on April 15, 2026, and urged authorities to provide necessary security.
“We have written to the government and security authorities to express our desire to return to our ancestral home. What we are seeking for now is a sufficient security presence to give our people the confidence to return peacefully,” he stated.
Another representative, Ita Ben Itu, stated that the peace process had reached a critical point demanding direct government action.
According to him, while traditional rulers and peace groups have maintained conversation throughout the years, only strong government support can ensure a safe and long-term relocation.
Community leaders also mentioned unresolved property conflicts and limited access to farmlands as ongoing conflict triggers, pointing out that previous intervention efforts by successive administrations were not properly executed.
They did, however, express hope that the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu would secure the peaceful return of displaced people.
The programme, led by Ukorebi Esien and Dr. Efio-Ita Nyok, emphasised the importance of conversation, mediation, and inclusive involvement in preventing further violence and sustaining peace across the state’s communities.