The serene community of Inua Eyet Ikot in Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State was recently shattered by a violent attack, allegedly perpetrated by invaders from the neighboring Eket Local Government Area. This latest incident, which occurred in the early hours of a Friday, left at least twelve individuals hospitalized and numerous houses reduced to ashes. The attack is not an isolated event but rather the latest chapter in a protracted conflict over the control of the Stubbs Creek Reserve, a resource-rich area that has become a flashpoint between the two communities. This ongoing dispute, fueled by boundary disputes and economic interests, has resulted in numerous casualties and the destruction of property worth millions of naira, leaving residents in a constant state of fear and insecurity.
The attack unfolded with terrifying swiftness. Around 1:30 am, the peaceful stillness of the night was pierced by the staccato bursts of gunfire, sending residents scrambling for safety. Among those caught in the crossfire was Mr. Daniel Asuquo, popularly known as “Dan Baba,” who sustained gunshot wounds while attempting to escape the violence. Numerous homes, including Mr. Asuquo’s, were ransacked, vandalized, and ultimately set ablaze, resulting in significant property damage. The attackers, operating under the cover of darkness, managed to evade capture, leaving behind a trail of destruction and traumatized residents.
This latest attack marks the fifth such incident in recent times, underscoring the escalating tensions between the Ibeno and Eket communities. The re-mapping and boundary adjustments initiated by the previous administration of Governor Udom Emmanuel appear to have exacerbated the existing conflict, further fueling the animosity between the two LGAs. Ibeno, home to major oil installations and multinational operations, plays a crucial role in the state’s economy, contributing a significant portion of Akwa Ibom’s oil revenue. This economic significance, coupled with the boundary disputes, has made the area a prime target for such attacks, threatening not only the safety of the residents but also the economic stability of the region.
The victims of this latest attack, many of whom have sought refuge in neighboring communities, express deep concern for the future of peace and security in Ibeno. The unresolved hostilities and simmering tensions between the communities create a climate of fear and uncertainty, making it difficult for residents to feel safe in their own homes. The recurring nature of these attacks highlights the urgent need for intervention from both state and federal authorities. The victims, displaced and traumatized, are appealing for assistance from various agencies, including the State Emergency Management Agency and the National Emergency Management Agency, to help them rebuild their lives and restore a sense of normalcy to their community.
Stakeholders in the region have vehemently condemned the incessant attacks on Ibeno communities, emphasizing the devastating impact on human lives and property. They are calling on Governor Umo Eno to take decisive action to address the root causes of the conflict and to implement effective security measures to protect the vulnerable communities in Ibeno. The continuous cycle of violence not only threatens the safety and well-being of the residents but also undermines the economic stability of the region, which relies heavily on the oil production and related activities in Ibeno.
The Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, has confirmed the attack and assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway. Law enforcement agencies have deployed operatives to the area and are actively pursuing the perpetrators of the violence. The Commissioner has vowed to leave no stone unturned in their efforts to apprehend the suspects and bring them to justice. The residents of Ibeno are hopeful that these assurances will translate into concrete actions that will bring an end to the violence and restore peace to their community. They yearn for a future where they can live without fear, where their homes are safe, and where their community can thrive without the constant threat of attack.
