NBC Decries Loss Of Lives Over Abia-Akwa Ibom Boundary Dispute

The National Boundary Commission (NBC) has expressed concern over the loss of lives as a result of the longstanding boundary dispute between Abia and Akwa Ibom states.

The Director-General of the NBC, Mr. Adamu Adaji, stated the urgency of resolving the dispute during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday.

Adaji lamented the tragic loss of life due to differing perceptions and claims regarding the boundary. He stressed that all stakeholders must work together to put an end to the incidents.

“It is sad to note with regret, that valuable lives had been lost due to the differences of perception and claims over the Abia and Akwa Ibom interstate boundary in the past. This is something that must be stopped by all of us,” Adaji stated.

The Director-General pointed out the importance of finding a peaceful and amicable solution, noting that NBC is committed to defining the boundary clearly.

“As managers of boundaries, we must work tirelessly to foster peace and mutual understanding among affected communities, especially those living across the administrative boundary lines,” he said.

He also clarified that boundaries are established for administrative convenience and should not divide communities socially or economically.

The Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi, echoed Adaji’s sentiments and affirmed the state’s commitment to supporting the NBC’s efforts.

“We assure the entire boundary management team and all the stakeholders of our support, cooperation, and contribution toward the success of the field exercise and final resolution of the dispute.

“This is critical to ensuring peaceful co-existence among the neighbouring communities,” Eyakenyi said.

The resolution, she added, would be key to promoting peaceful coexistence between the neighboring states.

On his part, the Deputy Governor of Abia, Mr. Ikechukwu Emetu, described the ongoing dispute as a “cankerworm” and expressed dismay over the toll it has taken on communities.

He acknowledged the resources that have already been spent on addressing the issue and noted the frustration the Abia state government faced over the persistent conflicts at the border.

Emetu while speaking said, “Much time and enormous materials and funds have been invested in this project. Unfortunately, the prospects for resolution seem to be vague.

“On a very sad note, the Abia state government is not happy with the skirmishes inherent among the border communities.

“It is our belief that the resolution of the disputes will bring an end to it and the step taken by the NBC to resolve the dispute was heartwarming and highly desired by the people of Abia.”

According to the NBC, the contested boundary is a remnant of the former Cross River/Imo boundary, extending about 275 kilometers. The boundary has tripoints involving Abia, Akwa Ibom, and neighboring Cross River and Rivers states.

NBC said, that although the Federal Government attempted to adjust the boundary in 1985 through Decree 23, which followed recommendations from the Kaloma Ali Boundary Ascertainment Commission, the placement of permanent boundary markers has yet to be fully implemented.

Adaji also noted that the primary challenges have been the lack of clear delimitation instruments, as well as instances where existing documents are misinterpreted or disputed by stakeholders.

He expressed confidence that a strengthened collaboration between the NBC and both state governments will pave the way for a lasting solution, which will ensure the security and well-being of affected communities.

NBC reiterated its dedication to resolving the dispute, with the hope to create a path for peace and progress for the residents of Abia and Akwa Ibom states.

NBC Decries Loss Of Lives Over Abia-Akwa Ibom Boundary Dispute is first published on The Whistler Newspaper