Connect with us

News

NBC Calls for Peaceful Coexistence Amid Efforts to Resolve Abia-Cross River Boundary Disputes

Published

on

The National Boundary Commission (NBC) has called for peaceful coexistence among border communities in Abia and Cross River States amidst escalating tensions.

The Director-General, Surv. Adamu Adaji, made this appeal following violent clashes between the Isu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State and the Ukwa Mbiabong Ukwa Eburutu community in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State, which claimed lives in early January 2025.

In a statement by Efe Ovuakporie, Head of the Information and Public Relations Unit, NBC condemned the killings and extended condolences to the affected communities. It urged all stakeholders to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could undermine ongoing boundary resolution efforts.

The NBC highlighted its proactive measures, including the Joint Meeting of Officials (JMO) on the Abia-Cross River boundary held on December 11, 2024, at the Metropolitan Hotel, Calabar.

Advertisement

The meeting, chaired by Surv. Adamu Adaji, outlined key steps towards resolving the desputes in the affected areas.

The steps included the agreement to share the disputed triangular land between Okon-Aku and Ikun communities, subject to approval by the Deputy Governors.

Other steps include plans to resolve land issues with respect to point Abia/Cross River (AC)15A (Abia, Achara, and Biakpan communities) at a Joint Technical Meeting scheduled for January 20, 2025, in Abuja.

Aside the foregoing, the meeting also considered the submission of documents supporting claims over disputed points AC19 to AC23 (Mbiabong-Ito and Isu areas) by January 20, 2025 and the formation of a Joint Committee for the rehabilitation and return of displaced communities in the Mbiabong-Ito/Isu sector.

Advertisement

The NBC used the opportunity to reiterate its role as a neutral mediator committed to fairness, consensus, and fostering sustainable peace. It emphasized the importance of dialogue over violence, stressing that any acts of aggression would counter efforts to attract development and resolve disputes.

The Commission also urged traditional rulers, community leaders, and security agencies to collaborate in fostering peace and ensuring productive discussions ahead of the January 20th meeting.

During the December 2024 meeting, Deputy Governors Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu (Abia State) and Rt. Hon. Peter Odey affirmed their states’ commitment to an amicable resolution of the disputes.

 

Advertisement

Both leaders emphasized the need for peace and mutual understanding among the affected communities.

The NBC remains optimistic that its proactive approach, including its emphasis on accurate surveying and equitable solutions, will achieve a lasting resolution to the Abia-Cross River boundary continued disputes.

As preparations for the January 20, 2025, Joint Technical Meeting progress, the NBC has appealed to all stakeholders to prioritize peace and remain patient as the Commission works towards finalizing boundary resolutions. It is confident that these efforts will pave the way for stability and development in the region.

Advertisement
Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

News

WATCH Your Family Lawyer Podcast on YouTube tomorrow

Published

on

The second edition of Your Family Lawyer will hit the airwaves tomorrow (Saturday) precisely by 9.am.

Join Barrister Chinye Chuma, a veteran lawyer marshall out issues laced with court verdicts and how victims can resolve such knotty legal matters.

Watch introductory clip below;

Continue Reading

News

FemyWalsh Limited Makes History: Appoints Chief Julie Coker as Africa’s Oldest Female Journalist (Photos)

Published

on

In a groundbreaking move that underscores its commitment to inclusivity and excellence, FemyWalsh Limited has proudly announced the appointment of Chief Julie Coker, an 85-year-old trailblazer in African journalism, as part of its esteemed team.

This historic milestone cements FemyWalsh Limited’s position as a leader in championing diversity and recognising the value of experience across generations.

Chief Julie Coker, a celebrated icon in the media world, brings decades of experience, insight, and unparalleled expertise to the organisation. With a career spanning over six decades, she has been instrumental in shaping the narrative of African journalism, inspiring generations of journalists with her dedication, resilience, and pioneering spirit.

“Chief Julie Coker is not just a journalist; she is a living legend,” said Victor Walsh Oluwafemi, Chief Executive Director of FemyWalsh Limited. “Her contributions to journalism and storytelling have left an indelible mark on the industry. By welcoming her to our team, we are reaffirming our belief that greatness knows no age. This appointment is a testament to our commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and celebrating talent in all its forms.”

This is not the first time FemyWalsh Limited has demonstrated its dedication to inclusivity. Over a year ago, the organisation made headlines by employing a 74-year-old veteran journalist, setting a precedent for valuing experience and diversity. Chief Julie Coker’s appointment further elevates this legacy, marking a significant achievement not only for FemyWalsh Limited but also for Africa’s media landscape.

Chief Julie Coker will now join FemyWalsh Media, which operates Souq News Television, The Isle 104.9 FM Lagos, and the soon-to-launch Kasuwa Radio 99.7 FM, based in the ancient city of Kano. The addition of Kasuwa Radio reflects FemyWalsh Limited’s commitment to expanding its reach and promoting quality broadcasting across Nigeria.

Speaking on her appointment, Chief Julie Coker expressed her gratitude and excitement:
“I am deeply honoured to join FemyWalsh Limited, a company that values experience and continues to break barriers. I look forward to contributing my wealth of knowledge and being part of an organisation that is paving the way for inclusivity and innovation in the media industry.”

Advertisement

Chief Julie Coker’s role at FemyWalsh Limited will focus on mentoring the next generation of journalists, enhancing storytelling strategies, and promoting initiatives that celebrate Africa’s rich media heritage.

FemyWalsh Media’s growing portfolio of outlets underscores its dedication to reshaping the media landscape in Africa by combining innovation with inclusivity. This historic appointment serves as a beacon of inspiration for organisations worldwide, proving that experience and age are invaluable assets in fostering progress and creativity.

About FemyWalsh Limited
FemyWalsh Limited is a leading media organisation committed to driving inclusivity, innovation, and excellence in the media industry. With ownership of Souq News Television, The Isle 104.9 FM Lagos, and the soon-to-launch Kasuwa Radio 99.7 FM Kano, the company continues to inspire through its groundbreaking initiatives and unwavering commitment to diversity.

For media inquiries, please contact:
[Your Name]
[Your Position]
FemyWalsh Limited
Email: [Your Email]
Phone: [Your Phone Number]

Advertisement
Continue Reading

News

Afenifere demands concrete action from S’West governors on banditry

Published

on

The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, on Thursday, called on South West Governors to take the security of their areas more seriously in view of the latest revelation concerning the new influx of bandits into the region.

Afenifere disclosed this in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital,

PUNCH Online reports that the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde while speaking at the 2025 annual inter-faith service for workers held at the Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, on Monday, disclosed that bandits being dislodged from the North-West of Nigeria are infiltrating his state.

The Governor had said, “During a security briefing this morning, I learned that some bad elements from the North-West are relocating here due to military heat in their zones.

Advertisement

“To underscore the seriousness of the issue, the governor related his own personal experience when he observed his quiet birthday ceremony at Fashola near Oyo Alaafin towards the end of last month.

“During my birthday retreat in Fashola, bandits had camped less than two kilometres from where I was staying. This underscores the seriousness of the situation.”

Howeve, Afenifere stated that a disclosure of this nature coming from the Chief Security Officer of a state is not something to be treated with levity.

It, therefore, called on all the governors of the South-Western States to “as a matter of urgency, hold a meeting to map out strategies to expel the bandits from the region and to ensure that such elements do not infiltrate Yorubaland at any time again.

Advertisement

“For these objectives to be achieved, there is the need to carry certain groups along. These are the security agencies that will implement whatever security decisions are reached, traditional rulers and heads of local vigilantes known as ‘Ode’.”

Ajayi added that whatever strategies were devised should include functional, up-to-date equipment for those who would be on the fields, attractive incentives and the deployment of modern technologies to assist in identifying the bandits and their hideouts.

While urging security agencies and citizens not to take the issue of security lightly, Ajayi concluded by saying that traditional rulers and community leaders in different parts of Yorubaland should not keep quiet whenever they notice any indication suggestive of security threat.

It added, “For example, until the governor made the revelation on Monday, such grave security danger was unknown to members of the public, yet there are people living in Fashola area where the bandits were reported to have established a camp. It is not unlikely that similar camps could be found in some other parts of the South West, hence the need for urgent and effective action.”

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2024 Naija Blitz News