A renewed communal conflict linked to a land dispute has claimed the life of a farmer and left several others injured in Biase Local Government Area.
The incident, which occurred on Saturday, July 4, was brought to public attention by Philip Obin, who alleged that the attack took place on farmland in Urugbam.
According to Obin, the deceased, Nkeruwem Ikoh, also known as Obong Ikor Obong, was shot by armed men believed to have come from Egbor Community in Erei South. He claimed the attackers invaded the farmland alongside collaborators, describing the assault as unprovoked.
Obin further accused the government of failing to adequately address the lingering conflict, stating that one person was killed while several others sustained gunshot wounds during the attack.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Cross River State Police Command, Sunday Eitokpah, said the command had launched an investigation.
Eitokpah explained that the attack reportedly occurred at about 3:00 p.m. on July 4, when two farmers: Nkeruwem Ikoh and Ukam Ajah Okpan were allegedly shot by unidentified gunmen while working on their farmland near Egbor Community.
He said both victims were taken back to their village for emergency assistance, but Ikoh later died from his injuries, while the second victim is receiving medical treatment. The deceased’s remains have been deposited at Uwana Mortuary.
The police assured residents that efforts are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack, identify those responsible, and ensure they are prosecuted.
The command also appealed to residents of Orugbam, Egbor, and neighbouring communities to remain peaceful, avoid retaliation, and provide any useful information that could assist investigators as the probe continues.
