The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, has reassured the people of Ukelle that the government remains committed to resolving the longstanding boundary dispute between Cross River and Ebonyi States. Rt. Hon. Odey gave this assurance while receiving a delegation of Ukelle leaders at his temporary office in Government House, Calabar on Monday.
In his address, the Deputy Governor reaffirmed the Bassey Otu-led administration’s dedication to ensuring peaceful coexistence and security for all citizens. He revealed that discussions were ongoing with the Ebonyi State Government, the National Boundary Commission (NBC), and other relevant authorities to facilitate a peaceful resolution.
“We recognize the challenges our people in Ukelle have faced due to this dispute. Be assured that under the leadership of Apostle Senator (Prince) Governor Bassey Otu, we are working tirelessly to ensure that no part of Ukelle land in Yala LGA or any other area of the state is ceded,” he stated.
Lamenting past instances where previous administrations ceded parts of the state to neighboring states or countries, Odey commended the Ukelle leaders for their dedication to peaceful dialogue. He assured them that the government would continue to engage with all stakeholders to prevent further conflicts.
The Deputy Governor also urged community leaders in Ukelle and other affected areas to prioritize peace and avoid any form of violence while the government pursues a long-term resolution.
Speaking on behalf of the Ukelle delegation, Hon. Dr. Martins Achadu, member representing Yala II State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, appreciated the government’s intervention, particularly in infrastructure development across the state. He specifically noted the ongoing facelift of the Ukelle road.
Hon. Achadu highlighted concerns over the forceful annexation of Ipollo villages in Ukelle to Izzi, citing the reorganization and renaming of the areas under Ebonyi State’s administrative structure. He urged the Cross River State Government to engage with the NBC and Ebonyi State Government to retrace and reinstall boundary beacons that had been deliberately removed. He also emphasized the need for the government to reclaim institutions in the disputed areas by providing essential social amenities, which would help curb provocations and prevent future crises.
In her vote of thanks, Chief (Mrs) Martina Odom commended the Cross River State Government for its unwavering efforts in resolving boundary disputes across the affected LGAs and neighboring states. She called for sustained commitment to ensuring a lasting peace between the two states.
The event was attended by the Commissioner for International Donor Coordination, Dr Hippolatus Lukpata, former House of Assembly members, and other key stakeholders from Ukelle, Yala Local Government Area.
Also present was the Head of Personal Staff to the Deputy Governor, Dr. Chris Ojikpong and other political appointees in the deputy governor’s office.