Fresh violence has erupted along the Ikom-Obubra border, despite ongoing peace efforts by Governor Bassey Otu to resolve communal clashes between communities in Ikom and Obubra Local Government Areas. The latest incident occurred on October 11, 2025, when armed men invaded cocoa farms around Mfam Osusoh Okpon, a border settlement between Ikom and Obubra.
According to eyewitnesses, several persons were shot during the invasion, including Junior Ebi Anara, a youth from Okosora Clan, who was attempting to prevent the invaders from stealing harvested cocoa pods. The clash began when local youths mobilized to stop the attackers, and one of the invaders opened fire, prompting the others to flee for their lives.
Residents reported that the recurring attacks have heightened tension and fear among farmers, many of whom have abandoned their farms. This incident marks the third attack on farmers in the Ikom-Obubra border communities since Governor Otu initiated peace talks and directed both sides to maintain the status quo while the government works towards a lasting settlement.
The renewed hostility has raised concerns about the fragile peace process, with residents calling for a stronger security presence. Governor Otu’s efforts to end the persistent communal clashes between Alesi, Ekukunela, and Agbaragba communities in Ikom, and Ochon, Isabang, and Odonget in Obubra, have yet to yield a lasting solution.
The conflict has significant implications for the local economy, as many farmers have been forced to abandon their farms due to fear of attacks. The Nigerian government has been working to address the root causes of the conflict, but the recent violence has underscored the need for more effective measures to ensure the safety and security of communities in the region.
As the situation continues to unfold, residents are eagerly awaiting a more substantial response from the government to address the ongoing violence and provide a lasting solution to the communal clashes. The international community is also watching the situation closely, as the conflict has the potential to destabilize the region and impact the livelihoods of thousands of people.