Lagos–Calabar Highway: Ekid Union rejects ‘terrorist’ tag, demands justice for Stubbs Creek

Ini Billie, Uyo

The Ekid Peoples Union (EPU), a socio-cultural organisation in Akwa Ibom State, has condemned attempts by some political supporters of Governor Umo Eno to label it a terrorist group over its stance on the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project.

The union stressed that it is not opposed to development, but would resist any project that violates the law, disregards history and culture, or brings hardship to host communities.

Tension arose following EPU’s earlier warning that it would oppose the routing of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway through the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve, which spans Eket, Esit Eket, Mbo and Ibeno local government areas. Governor Eno had cautioned that no individual or group would be allowed to obstruct a Federal Government project.

EPU, however, alleged that in the aftermath of its position, some supporters of the governor began branding the union as “terrorists” for asserting its rights through lawful means.

In a statement signed by Chief Nduese Essien, former Minister and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, and Prince Bassey Itama, Secretary, the union called for reason, fairness and justice in decisions concerning the future of the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve.

“Contrary to some narratives, the Ekid people have not opposed the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway as a federal project. We recognise the importance of regional connectivity and economic integration,” the statement said.

The union noted that in other parts of the country, the Federal Government has followed due process in constructing the highway by engaging host communities, observing land acquisition procedures and paying compensation where necessary.

According to EPU, its caveat was not intended to halt development but to alert authorities and investors to alleged illegal land racketeering within the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve, where ancestral land was being allocated without consultation, consent or compensation.

“This warning did not arise in a vacuum. It followed repeated instances where land within the Stubbs Creek area was transferred to security agencies and private companies as if no indigenous owners existed. If left unchallenged, such actions would permanently dispossess the Ekid people of their heritage,” the group stated.

EPU explained that the designation of Stubbs Creek as a forest reserve under Forest Reserve Order No. 45 of 1930 was strictly for conservation purposes, adding that under Nigerian land law and the Land Use Act of 1978, ownership of the land remains with the Ekid people.

The union insisted that government custodianship for conservation does not amount to absolute ownership or a licence to dispose of the land arbitrarily. It also dismissed claims that the Ekid people had refused to make concessions to neighbouring communities.

Highlighting the environmental and economic value of the reserve, EPU described Stubbs Creek as one of the last surviving forest ecosystems in Akwa Ibom State. The mangroves and forests, it said, serve as buffers against coastal erosion and flooding, regulate local climate and support rare biodiversity.

The group warned against the temptation to convert such natural assets into quick revenue, noting that Nigeria’s experience with crude oil exploitation should serve as a cautionary tale.

EPU further alleged that the harsh rhetoric directed at the Ekid people was aimed at intimidation and silencing, insisting that it would not be coerced into surrendering its rights.

“We will not be forced into silence to legitimise illegality. Our resolve is rooted in law, history and responsibility to generations yet unborn,” the statement said.

The union called for an end to hostile rhetoric, genuine engagement with Ekid stakeholders, transparent environmental and social impact assessments, and a review of any project that threatens the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve.

While reaffirming its commitment to peace and development in Akwa Ibom State, EPU said it would remain steadfast in defending its land, environment and dignity.

“That stance is not terrorism. It is responsible citizenship anchored in the rule of law and justice without self-help,” the union declared.