Senator Austin Akobundu, representing Abia Central, has called for peace following a deadly clash between residents of Ariam Eleuelu in Ariam Usaka, Ikwuano LGA of Abia State, and the Obot Akara community in Akwa Ibom State. The conflict, part of a long-standing border dispute, claimed one life and resulted in the destruction of properties worth millions of naira.
Speaking on Sunday night, Akobundu urged both communities to lay down their arms and embrace peace. He assured his constituents that he would escalate the matter to the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, who represents Akwa Ibom North-West, which includes Obot Akara LGA.
“I will take this issue to the Senate for urgent intervention, and I am confident that the legislative body will work towards restoring lasting peace in the affected areas,” Akobundu stated.
He encouraged all parties involved to see one another as brothers and maintain peaceful coexistence. The senator also pledged to collaborate with relevant government agencies at all levels to ensure the restoration of normalcy.
Akobundu commended the Mayor of Ikwuano LGA, Anthony Nzeribe Nwaubani, for his swift action in mobilizing security agencies to contain the crisis. He also extended condolences to the family of the deceased and called on the governments of Abia and Akwa Ibom to intensify efforts in resolving the dispute permanently.
Confirming the incident, Abia State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Maureen Chinaka, stated, “Yes, we are aware of the clash. Security operatives responded promptly, and normalcy has been restored.”
Meanwhile, Akobundu’s media aide, Jude Ndukwe, reiterated the senator’s commitment to working with Akpabio and other stakeholders to achieve lasting peace between the warring communities.
