By Asuquo Cletus
Calm has been restored to Mfamosing and neighboring communities in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State, following a violent clash that claimed two lives and displaced residents over the weekend.
The incident stemmed from a confrontation between security operatives attached to Wilmar Oil Palm Estates and a group of youths allegedly involved in the illegal harvesting of palm fruits. Tensions escalated when one of the intruders was fatally shot during the encounter.
In retaliation, suspected assailants from the nearby Camp 2 community launched an attack on Mfamosing, killing a former security staff member of Wilmar and forcing several residents to flee their homes.
Reacting swiftly, the Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, Hon. Felix Akposi, in coordination with the State Security Adviser to the Governor, Maj. Gen. Okoi Obono (Rtd), and the Nigerian Police Force, intervened to stabilize the situation.
A press statement released on Friday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Council, Daniel Agbor, confirmed the deployment of three tactical police units under the directive of the Divisional Police Officer of Akamkpa to safeguard critical locations, including the Wilmar estate and surrounding areas.
“The safety of our residents and the peace of our communities are non-negotiable,” Akposi stated. “We remain committed to upholding law and order and will not allow any individual or group to disrupt the peace we have worked hard to maintain.”
The joint security team also met with Wilmar’s management to reinforce collaboration and implement additional measures to prevent future incidents.
Authorities have confirmed that the deceased individuals have been taken to a mortuary while investigations are underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding the violence.
The Council reiterated its commitment to security and economic stability in Akamkpa, assuring residents and investors that the area remains safe and conducive for lawful activities.
“We want to reassure all residents and investors that Akamkpa remains a peaceful and resilient local government area,” the statement read. “Our administration is fully committed to supporting security agencies to safeguard every community.”
Chairman Akposi also issued a stern warning to those involved in criminal acts, stressing that lawbreakers will be held accountable.
“We will deploy all lawful measures, in collaboration with security agencies, to bring perpetrators to justice and ensure that order is maintained at all times,” he said.
The Council called on traditional rulers, youth leaders, and other stakeholders to work in synergy with the government and security operatives to uphold peace in the region.
“Peace is a collective responsibility. Together, we can build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Akamkpa for all,” the statement concluded.
