Abia State Government Takes Action to Resolve Boundary Disputes with Akwa Ibom Communities

The Abia State Government has taken a proactive step towards resolving the lingering boundary disputes with communities in neighboring Akwa Ibom State.

Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu, who is also the Chairman of the Abia State Boundary Committee, has instructed members of the state boundary committee to employ professional and peaceful means to address the internal and interstate boundary issues confronting the state.

During a recent meeting held at Government House, Umuahia, Deputy Governor Emetu emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution, particularly during the current farming season.

He called on leaders and stakeholders in Ikwuano Local Government Area to provide certified documents and court judgments that would aid in finding a solution to the long-standing dispute between the Ariam Elu-Elu and Ariam Osoigwe autonomous communities in Ikwuano and their counterparts in Ikoro Okwom and Akara of Akwa Ibom State.

Governor Alex Otti has directed the affected communities in Ikwuano to liaise with their counterparts in Akwa Ibom to de-escalate tensions along their boundary areas until the National Boundary Commission can properly demarcate their boundaries.

The state government is committed to ensuring food sufficiency and is overhauling the agricultural sector to capitalize on its potential for increased revenue generation.

Commander Macdonald Ubah (rted), the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, has assured that the state government will address the root of the matter concerning boundary issues in and outside Abia.

He warned against violence and bloodshed over land disputes.

The Chairman of Ikwuano LGA, Osinachi Nwaka, and the traditional ruler of Ugwuegbu autonomous community in Usaka, Eze Ambrose Nwagwu, expressed their concerns over the boundary issues with their Akwa Ibom neighbors and appealed to the federal and state government for assistance in ensuring food security and adequate security in their land.

Interim reports on the demarcation of boundaries between Ndi Ememe Abam versus Idima Abam and Ndi Ojiaku Abam versus Ndiebe Abam were also presented during the meeting.

An update from the National Boundary Commission on the demarcation of boundaries between Abia and Akwa Ibom states was also discussed.

The Abia State Government’s proactive approach to resolving these boundary disputes highlights its commitment to maintaining peace and promoting economic development in the region.