The communal conflict in Akwa Ibom State escalated over the weekend, as a fresh outbreak of violence in the Inua Eyet Ikot community, Ibeno Local Government Area, resulted in the destruction of several homes.
At least 12 people sustained injuries and were hospitalized after assailants from the neighboring Eket LGA attacked the community, intensifying the long-standing hostilities between the two areas.
The two LGAs have reportedly been in dispute for years over control of the Stubbs Creek Reserve—a conflict that has previously led to multiple fatalities and the loss of property worth millions of naira.
According to eyewitnesses, the latest assault occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Friday. Several residents were injured, including one Mr. Daniel Asuquo, also known as “Dan Baba,” who was reportedly hit by gunfire during the attack.
The witness, who asked to remain anonymous, added that properties valued in the millions were looted and set ablaze during the incident.
“At about 1:30 am on Friday, we heard gunshots in our community, and we immediately alerted the police, who quickly mobilised to rescue us.
“The police team arrived when the attackers had escaped. A search was conducted where one of the victims, Mr. Daniel Asuquo, alias ‘Danbaba’, was seen lying in a pool of his blood from gunshot wounds. He was immediately evacuated to a nearby health facility,” he said.
Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, Baba Azare, who confirmed the attack, assured that efforts were ongoing to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice. Besides, stakeholders have condemned the incessant attacks on Ibeno communities, which have led to the loss of lives and destruction of properties.
Affected families have appealed to Governor Umo Eno, security agencies, and other concerned organisations, including the State Emergency Management Agency and the National Emergency Management Agency, to come to their aid.
