Violence broke out over the weekend between the Isu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area (LGA) of Abia State and the Ukwa Mbiabong Ukwa Eburutu community in Odukpani LGA, Cross River State, leaving at least six dead.
The cause of the clash remains unknown, but it was confirmed on Monday. This marks the latest episode in a long-standing boundary dispute, which has led to numerous deaths over the last decade.
This is the second attack on the Ukwa community in six months. In May 2024, several people were killed over disagreements about precious stone sites.
Witnesses say suspected attackers from Isu launched the assault on Saturday morning. Willy Esara, a youth leader, reported that two men were killed and ten others were critically injured.
Another source stated that the attackers ambushed villagers heading to the farm. Two men Abi Effiong Oku and Inyang Nya Ewa were killed, and one of them was beheaded.
The community is now in shock and fear, with many residents fleeing. Local police have yet to comment on the situation, though Irene Ugbo, the police PRO, confirmed that an investigation would be launched. Calls to the state security adviser, Major General Obono Ubi (retired), went unanswered.
The ongoing violence along the Abia-Cross River boundary continues to put the safety of local residents at risk.