By Asuquo Cletus
Calm has returned to Mfamosing and surrounding communities in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State, following a coordinated security intervention led by the Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, Hon. Felix Akposi.
The disturbance, which occurred over the weekend, was sparked by a confrontation between security operatives guarding Wilmar Oil Palm Estates and a group of youths allegedly involved in the illegal harvesting of palm fruits. The situation escalated when one of the intruders was fatally wounded during the clash.
In retaliation, assailants from the nearby Camp 2 community reportedly launched an attack on Mfamosing, leading to the death of a former security staff of Wilmar and the displacement of several residents.
In a press statement issued on Wednesday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Council, Daniel Agbor, it was confirmed that the Chairman, in collaboration with the State Security Adviser to the Governor, Maj. Gen. Okoi Obono (Rtd), and the Nigerian Police Force, moved swiftly to restore peace to the affected communities.
According to the statement, three tactical police units were deployed under the directive of the Divisional Police Officer of Akamkpa to secure key locations, including the Wilmar estate and surrounding areas. The deployment helped to quickly restore order and prevent further escalation.
โThe safety of our residents and the peace of our communities are non-negotiable,โ the statement quoted Akposi as saying. โWe remain committed to upholding law and order and will not allow any individual or group to disrupt the peace we have worked hard to maintain.โ
The joint security team also met with Wilmarโs management to strengthen collaboration and reinforce future security measures across the estate.
Authorities have confirmed that the bodies of the two deceased individuals have been deposited in a mortuary, while investigations into the incident are ongoing.
The press statement further reaffirmed the Councilโs commitment to maintaining security and ensuring that Akamkpa remains a safe destination for both residents and investors.
โWe want to reassure all residents and investors that Akamkpa remains a peaceful and resilient local government area,โ the statement read. โOur administration is fully committed to supporting security agencies to safeguard every community and foster an environment where peace, enterprise, and lawful activities thrive.โ
The Chairman issued a stern warning to dissident groups or individuals involved in criminal activities, emphasizing that Akamkpa would not serve as a refuge for lawlessness.
โWe will deploy all lawful measures, in collaboration with security agencies, to bring perpetrators to justice and ensure that order is maintained at all times,โ Akposi warned.
In a call to action, the Council urged traditional rulers, youth leaders, and community stakeholders to collaborate with government and security agencies in preserving peace across the region.
โPeace is a collective responsibility. Together, we can build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Akamkpa for all,โ the statement concluded.
