Akpan Umoh, Uyo
The Akwa Ibom Deputy Governor, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi, has called on the leaders of the various communities in the state that are experiencing a communal crisis to sheath their swords and embrace the peace that will usher in development to their communities.
Eyakenyi gave the advice in her maiden interactive meeting with Local Government Chairmen, Paramount Rulers and Stakeholders of the affected communities in Uyo.
The deputy governor, who is the chairman of the State Boundary Committee said that the government was aware of the various land disputes that had arisen between villages, as well as inter-state boundary issues.
She expressed hope that those crises would be resolved within the lifespan of the current administration in the state.
Eyakenyi said that the new government would do its best to sustain the existing peace in the state.
She appealed to the stakeholders not to take laws into their hands, before reporting any issues of concern to the government or security agencies.
“People should avoid anything that is capable of causing disunity.
“If there is any issue, I am accessible, I am open, let me know what is going on and we will intervene and ensure that peace prevails,” Eyakenyi said.
Eyakenyi reminded the paramount rulers and chairmen that the government had given them the mandate to sit together and proffer solutions to the issues affecting their communities, especially boundary issues
Responding on behalf of the Chairmen, the Chairman of Uyo Local Government Area, Dr Uwemedimo Udo, said as council chairmen, they were willing and always ready to play their roles to ensure they had peace in their domains.
Udo commended the efforts of the state government in ensuring that peace is sustained, assuring that there will be no compromise to ensure peace in all parts of the state.
Speaking on behalf of the security agencies, CSP Hope Fubara, said that land matters were sensitive issues and should be handled carefully to avoid escalations.
Fubara assured of the security agencies’ commitment to continue to partner with the state government to ensure lasting peace in the state.