"No Boundary Line Is Worth More Than Human Lives" — Monarch Appeals for Peace

The Paramount Ruler of Yakurr Local Government Area and Obol Lopon of Ugep, Obol Ofem Ubana, has publicly addressed the ongoing communal crisis between Ugep and Idomi communities, assuring residents that efforts are underway to restore peace, guarantee security, and achieve a fair resolution to the long-standing boundary dispute.

In a statement dated June 13, 2026, the monarch expressed deep sympathy to families affected by the recent violence, which has reportedly claimed lives, displaced residents, and disrupted economic activities, particularly farming and local trade. He acknowledged the pain and losses suffered by members of the affected communities and pledged that the traditional institution would not abandon its responsibility during this difficult period.

Addressing residents of Umor Otutu and the wider Ugep community, the royal father said he shares in the grief of families who lost loved ones and property during the unrest. He stressed that while words may not heal the wounds inflicted by the conflict, meaningful actions are being taken behind the scenes to secure lasting peace.

The monarch also responded to criticisms regarding his perceived absence during the crisis. According to him, his engagements outside the community were aimed at securing government intervention and mobilizing relevant authorities to address the situation.

He explained that he has been actively involved in consultations with the Cross River State Government, security agencies, community stakeholders, and relevant institutions responsible for boundary management. These engagements, he noted, are focused on protecting the interests of the people while ensuring that the crisis does not escalate further.

According to the traditional ruler, discussions have involved the National Boundary Commission, state authorities, security operatives, and community representatives. He disclosed that efforts are ongoing to conduct boundary surveys and gather relevant evidence that would contribute to a lawful and permanent resolution of the dispute.

The monarch further revealed that increased government attention has been directed toward the crisis, including the involvement of the Surveyor-General in the ongoing demarcation process. He expressed optimism that the exercise would help establish clarity on the disputed boundaries and reduce future tensions between both communities.

While reaffirming Ugep's commitment to pursuing justice through legitimate and peaceful channels, Obol Ubana insisted that every lawful avenue would be explored until the matter is resolved conclusively. He emphasized that the objective is not confrontation but a just outcome that guarantees peaceful coexistence between Ugep and Idomi communities.

The royal father assured affected families that support would extend beyond public statements, adding that the Ugep Traditional Council remains committed to standing with victims throughout the recovery process.

He also called on residents to remain calm, avoid actions capable of escalating tensions, and support ongoing peace initiatives being facilitated by the government and security agencies.

The intervention comes amid intensified efforts by the Cross River State Government to address the recurring conflict. The government recently convened peace meetings involving traditional rulers, political leaders, boundary officials, and stakeholders from both communities, while also imposing a temporary dusk-to-dawn curfew to prevent further violence and maintain law and order.

Observers believe the latest intervention by the Obol Lopon could help calm tensions and strengthen confidence in the ongoing process aimed at resolving one of the state's most persistent communal disputes.

The Ugep-Idomi conflict, largely rooted in boundary and land ownership disagreements, has resurfaced periodically over the years despite several peace efforts and government interventions. Stakeholders continue to advocate for a comprehensive demarcation exercise and permanent peace framework capable of ending the recurring clashes.