The Director-General of National Boundary Commission, Mr Adamu Adaji, says the commission will soon commence the delineation and demarcation of the boundary between Abia and Akwa Ibom states to put an end to the lingering boundary skirmishes and loss of lives.
Mr Adaji, who stated this during a joint sensitization and enlightenment campaign along Abia and Akwa Ibom interstate boundary, pointed out that the hostilities currently being experienced between the Akirika Obu and lkot Udo communities were as a result of delay in the speedy demarcation and resolution of their boundary lines.
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Bustle, hustle inside the famous Wukari Yam Market
He assured the governments of the two states that the commission will ensure that the boundaries are defined and urged both communities to embrace peace to enable them to benefit from developmental projects.
Sixteen persons were reportedly killed and six others declared missing after a boundary clash between the two states in February. A similar incident occurred in August 2020 in which about 11 persons were killed and several others injured on both sides.
The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, commended the commission for efforts made so far to ensure that their boundaries with neighbouring states are delineated.
He told the warring communities that land matters should not be avenues to shed blood and kill one another.
Akwa Ibom State Deputy Governor, Sir Moses Ekpo, also lauded the determination of the commission to sort out issues of boundary skirmishes between the two states.