By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Ibeno Clan Council in Akwa Ibom State has condemned a recent statement by Afigh Iwaad Ekid, describing it as misleading, provocative and capable of escalating tensions in the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Upenekang, the Secretary of the Council, Chief Udofia Okon Udofia, criticised claims concerning the location of the QIT Terminal and other territorial assertions within Ibeno Local Government Area.
The council said it “vehemently condemns the statement credited to the leadership of Afigh Iwaad Ekid regarding the location of the QIT Terminal and other territorial claims within Ibeno,” insisting that such assertions are inaccurate.
It maintained that Akwa Ibom State has only one officially recognised map defining all local government areas, including Ibeno, and listing its 25 recognised villages.
According to the council, no part of Ibeno has ever been ceded to another local government area, stressing that all boundaries within the state are legally and constitutionally binding.
The council warned the leadership of Afigh Iwaad Ekid and other groups against making statements that could create confusion or threaten peace in the state.
“We caution those seeking to propagate narratives that question the territorial integrity of Ibeno and Akwa Ibom State to desist forthwith,” the statement said.
It also condemned what it described as unlawful directives allegedly issued to companies operating within Ibeno territory, warning that such actions would be resisted in accordance with the law.
“Attempts to claim lands or issue directives to companies operating within Ibeno land under any guise are unacceptable and will be resisted,” the council added.
While calling for restraint, the council urged stakeholders, including the International President of Afigh Iwaad Ekid, Obongiwaad (Capt.) Willie Mbong, and its Secretary, Obong Umana Umana, to channel grievances through lawful and peaceful means.
The council also referenced recent tensions in the area, alleging attempts by “unscrupulous elements,” in collaboration with an oil company, to erect illegal signposts within Ibeno territory.
The development comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding the Akwa Ibom State Map Establishment Law 2023, enacted during the administration of former governor Udom Emmanuel.
The law has faced opposition from several coastal communities, including Ibeno, Mbo, Eastern Obolo and Ikot Abasi, with stakeholders alleging that the remapping exercise is politically motivated and affects oil-producing areas.
The dispute has reportedly triggered protests, legal actions and heightened tensions across affected communities.
In 2023, some communities instituted legal proceedings challenging the legitimacy of the law, while there have also been reports of court interventions on similar boundary matters.
Despite the disagreements, the Ibeno Clan Council reiterated its commitment to peace and lawful engagement, urging all parties to rely on verifiable records and established legal processes in addressing disputes.
It further questioned Afigh Iwaad Ekid’s withdrawal from an appeal case at the Court of Appeal, Calabar Division, and its rejection of the state government’s peace committee.
The council emphasised that grievances should not be pursued through inflammatory rhetoric or ethnic-driven narratives, warning that such actions could undermine peaceful coexistence.
It reaffirmed its resolve to protect the territorial integrity of Ibeno, stating that any further attempts to distort facts or disrupt harmony in the area would be addressed decisively.
