ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The deployment of soldiers from the 13 Brigade of the Nigerian Army has brought respite to the ongoing communal conflict between Ovonum and Ofatura communities in the central Cross River State.
The dispute, following a fight over a piece of farmland known as the plantation, reignited on 1st October 2023, leading to violence, loss of lives, the closure of the Ikom-Ogoja federal highway and the destruction of over 200 houses.
The intervention of soldiers, ordered by Governor Bassey Otu, has helped quell the hostilities, although thousands have been displaced, and many residents have sought refuge at Mater Misericordiae Catholic Church.
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This conflict had previously flared up in April, resulting in casualties and property damage.
Egbe Abeng, a member of the state House of Assembly representing the area, commended the Governor’s proactive intervention and called for an inquiry into the leadership of both Ofatura and Ovoum communities.
A resident of the area, Elom Obongha, told Daily Post that violence broke out at midnight over the disputed land and escalated quickly before soldiers arrived at dawn.
“By the time the soldiers arrived, a lot of damage had been done, and now thousands of people are taking refuge at Mater Misericordiae Catholic Church,” he said.