Maha Christopher
The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Peter Odey, has called on the National Boundary Commission (NBC) to accelerate the demarcation of boundaries across the country, warning that unresolved disputes continue to threaten peace and development in affected communities.
According to The Punch, Odey made the appeal on Monday in Abuja while delivering a goodwill message at a national workshop on Border Security, Resilience and Cross-Border Cooperation organised by the National Boundary Commission.
The deputy governor, who also serves as Chairman of the Cross River State Boundary Committee, described effective border governance as critical to national security, stability and socio-economic development.
“This workshop is timely and significant because effective border governance remains critical to Nigeria’s security stability, socio-economic development and promoting peaceful coexistence, as well as fostering sustainable development in border communities,” he said.
Odey lamented that Cross River State continues to face unresolved boundary disputes with neighbouring states, including Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, Benue and Abia.
He said the lingering disagreements have continued to pose challenges to peace, security and development in several communities.
The deputy governor also drew attention to recent tensions involving Cameroonian soldiers in Danare, Boki Local Government Area, as well as unresolved issues surrounding the Bakassi Peninsula.
“As a border state, Cross River appreciates the strategic importance of effective border governance and cross-border collaboration in line with the People’s First agenda of Governor Bassey Otu. This administration is committed to promoting peace, security, and inclusive development most especially in communities located along the state’s boundaries,” he said.
Odey urged the National Boundary Commission to take urgent steps to ensure proper and timely demarcation of boundaries in disputed areas to prevent recurring conflicts and strengthen peaceful coexistence among neighbouring communities.
