The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has officially announced the state’s takeover of disputed land in the oil communities of Iwuochang, Iko Nsong, and Esit Urua.

The move comes in the aftermath of violent clashes in these areas. Governor Eno expressed his dismay during a visit to critically injured victims at the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital in Uyo.

Eno, visibly upset, condemned the destruction of lives and properties resulting from the communal war. He directed Captain Iniobong Ekong (rtd), the Commissioner for Lands, to assess the damages, including houses and shops, caused by the conflict.

The Governor, determined to bring the perpetrators to justice, stated that the sponsors of the violence were already known to the government. He issued a stern warning, saying, “After this warning today, if this happens again, I can assure you that the government will call you out, pick you up, and you will face the penalty squarely.”

Addressing political figures, Eno appealed for unity and warned against taking sides that could exacerbate divisions. He emphasized the need to end the recurring clashes between Eket, Esit Eket, and Ibeno Local Government areas, urging leaders not to sponsor young people to take the law into their hands.

Eno emphasized the historical ties between the communities and urged an end to the unnecessary conflicts. Regarding the main cause of the conflict, the Stubbs Creek Forest, he clarified, “Stubbs Creek belongs to neither Eket, Esit Eket, nor Ibeno.

It is a forest reserve that belongs to the government.” The Governor highlighted the importance of the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve for carbon credits and job opportunities for local youth.