“Cross River Governor Urges NBC Action to Prevent Bloodshed Amid Boundary Disputes”
Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has made a fervent plea to the National Boundary Commission (NBC) to take decisive steps in resolving boundary disputes to avert further violence. His call comes in the wake of recent clashes between communities in Arochukwu LGA of Abia State and Odukpani LGA of Cross River State, triggered by conflicts over limestone deposits situated on the border.
In a bid to address these pressing concerns, a delegation from the NBC, headed by Director-General Surveyor Adamu Adaji, paid a visit to the state, where they were received by the governor’s representative, Deputy Governor Peter Odey. During the meeting, Governor Otu’s deputy emphasized the need for the NBC to revisit historical boundary demarcations, which were originally established during the colonial era for economic gains rather than the well-being of the populace.
Peter Odey, who also chairs the State Boundary Committee, stressed the importance of developing new mapping techniques and strategies to accurately delineate state and interstate boundaries. He highlighted the devastating consequences of boundary disputes, which often result in loss of lives and destruction of property, and urged for proactive measures to prevent further conflicts.
Odey presented the Director-General with a comprehensive overview of the boundary issues affecting Cross River State, particularly focusing on the Nigeria-Cameroon international boundary and interstate disputes. He pledged the state’s full cooperation with the NBC to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.
Responding to the governor’s concerns, Surveyor Adamu Adaji reiterated the significance of clearly defined boundaries in promoting peaceful coexistence and cross-border cooperation. He acknowledged the challenges posed by demographic changes and climate variability, which intensify competition for land, water, and grazing rights, further exacerbating boundary tensions.
Adaji appealed to the Cross River State government to actively support the efforts of the State Boundary Committee and participate in collaborative initiatives aimed at resolving disputes amicably. The engagement between the NBC and the state government reflects a shared commitment to address boundary challenges and mitigate the risk of violence, ultimately fostering harmony and development in the region.