Police to Launch Disarmament Operation in Cross River’s Biakpan and Etono Communities
Calabar, Cross River State, May 22, 2025 – The Cross River State Police Command has announced plans to launch a major disarmament operation in the Biakpan and Etono communities of Biase Local Government Area following months of deadly clashes and persistent refusal by local leaders to cooperate with peace efforts.
Background of the Conflict
The conflict between Biakpan and Etono, which has spanned over 20 years, escalated in recent months with renewed violent clashes resulting in the deaths of nearly 40 people. The dispute centers around a Supreme Court ruling granting Biakpan control over the Etono 2 area, but tensions have been further inflamed by allegations of property destruction and arms stockpiling.
Commissioner of Police Olusegun Omosanyin revealed that despite numerous interventions by security agencies, dignitaries, and peace advocates—including visits by the State Security Adviser (South) and the Deputy Commissioner of Police—the communities have largely rejected reconciliation efforts.
Police Warning and Planned Operation
CP Omosanyin summoned the Chairman of Biase LGA, Hon. Edodi Edodi Eyong, traditional rulers, and youth leaders from both communities to the state police command headquarters in Calabar. However, youth leaders failed to attend, an act the Commissioner described as defiance that would no longer be tolerated.
He warned,
“We cannot continue to witness these wanton killings. No Nigerian has the right to take another life under the provisions of the Constitution. Their conduct is pushing the government to the edge.”
The police have urged the communities to surrender their weapons peacefully. If they refuse, a full-scale disarmament operation involving all armed forces in the state will be launched to forcibly disarm gunmen and restore peace.
Allegations and Denials
Sources allege that Chairman Eyong led gunmen to destroy properties belonging to prominent Biakpan indigenes, including worship centers owned by the spiritual leader His Holiness Olumba Olumba Obu, amid suspicions of arms stockpiling. Additionally, food palliatives sent by the spiritual leader were reportedly rejected and vandalized by Etono youths, escalating tensions.
Chairman Eyong denied these accusations, stating,
“It’s not true that I support Etono because my wife is from there—she is not. As chairman of Biase LGA, I cannot afford to be partial in matters involving my communities. I welcome any individual or organization willing to restore peace.”
Security and Community Impact
The ongoing violence has caused significant loss of life and property, disrupting livelihoods and community relations. The police operation aims to disarm all illegal weapons and create an environment conducive to lasting peace and development in the area.
