The Cross River State Government has summoned traditional rulers, political leaders and key stakeholders from Yakurr Local Government Area to an emergency meeting over the escalating communal crisis between Ugep and Idomi communities.
The invitation follows a directive from Governor Bassey Otu, as part of renewed efforts to restore peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order in the affected communities.
The meeting, scheduled for Thursday, is to be presided over by the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Peter Odey, at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Room in Calabar.
According to a public service announcement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Erasmus Ekpang, the emergency meeting is aimed at addressing the violent clashes that have reportedly led to loss of lives and destruction of property in the area.
“Those expected at the meeting include members of the Cross River State House of Assembly representing Yakurr I and II constituencies, the Executive Chairman of Yakurr Local Government Area, a commissioner from the area, the Obol Lopon of Ugep, the Obol Lopon of Idomi, as well as selected stakeholders from both communities.”- The statement read.
The government stressed that attendance is mandatory for all invited persons, adding that no representation will be allowed under any circumstances.
Security sources and community accounts sent to our correspondent indicate that tensions have remained high in recent days following renewed hostilities between the neighbouring communities, prompting fears of further escalation.