The people of Iso-Bendeghe in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State have rejected allegations linking their community to the killing of Mr Chinedu, reportedly a resident of Bansan Osokom, and called for an impartial investigation into the incident.
In a press statement, the community condemned the killing and urged Ochibe Boki leadership, security agencies, and the Cross River State Government to investigate the circumstances surrounding Chinedu’s death and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice.
Iso-Bendeghe expressed concern over social media publications allegedly accusing its residents and people from Nsadop of killing the man, who was reportedly travelling to supply foodstuffs to residents of Boje through the Nsadop–Onicha farm road.
The community disputed the allegations, saying accounts about where the body was discovered were conflicting. According to the statement, security personnel at the scene reportedly indicated that the body was found along the Ejoghe-Ejoghe axis, an area Iso-Bendeghe associates with Boje.
The community insisted that only a professional investigation could establish what happened, warning that unverified accusations could worsen tensions between neighbouring communities.
Iso-Bendeghe also raised concerns over alleged threats by unidentified armed men along the Ejoghe-Ejoghe axis and reported attacks on farmers, including the destruction of cocoa trees and other property. It called on security agencies to investigate the claims and strengthen security along vulnerable routes.
The statement further referenced other reported killings and attacks involving residents of neighbouring communities, including the alleged killing of a man identified as Daniel, who reportedly had family connections to both Boje and Iso-Bendeghe. The community also cited other incidents that it said required independent investigation.
It called on social media users and content creators to verify information before publication, warning that inflammatory reports could encourage retaliation and undermine peace efforts.
According to the statement, Iso-Bendeghe has observed a ceasefire since the clashes of September 3, 2026, and remains committed to peaceful coexistence. The community also urged residents of Boje and neighbouring areas to cooperate with security agencies and reject violence.
Among its demands, Iso-Bendeghe called for a thorough investigation into Chinedu’s death and other reported incidents, increased security for farmers and travellers, accountability for anyone found responsible for criminal acts, and an end to attacks on people and property.
The community also urged traditional rulers, youth leaders, government representatives, and security agencies to promote dialogue and reconciliation to prevent further bloodshed.
It stressed that residents and visitors should be able to travel, trade, and work safely in Boki, regardless of their ethnic or community background.
Iso-Bendeghe expressed sympathy for Chinedu’s family and reiterated its call for justice, urging all parties to avoid reprisals while investigations continue.
The community concluded by appealing to Boje, Iso-Bendeghe, and neighbouring communities to reject violence and work towards lasting peace, stressing that responsibility for the killing should be determined by credible evidence rather than social media accusations.
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