The Executive Chairman of Obudu Local Government Council, Hon. Dr. (Amb.) Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, KSM, has raised fresh concerns over alleged territorial encroachment following an on-the-spot assessment of the boundary between Mbazerem community in Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State and Abonkib community in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The inspection, prompted by renewed tensions in the area, covered key boundary markers from Beacon 75 to Beacon 74, identified as the tripartite point linking Obudu, Vandeikya, and Kwande Local Government Areas. The Chairman further traced the demarcation line through Beacons 73 and 72, carefully reviewing the boundary corridor.
Speaking during the tour, Undiandeye expressed deep concern over what he described as a gradual but persistent encroachment by settlers from Mbazerem community into the designated buffer zone separating the two communities. He warned that continued violations of the boundary could escalate tensions if not urgently addressed.
The Chairman was accompanied by security personnel from the Nigerian Police Force, representatives of the Abonkib community, the Special Adviser on Peace and Security, Mr. Ikem Emmanuel, the Deputy Leader of the Obudu Legislative Council, Hon. David Akpanke, and other key council officials. He noted that the buffer zone, originally established as neutral ground, is increasingly being compromised.
Undiandeye highlighted that the longstanding boundary dispute has been a recurring source of conflict, often driven by disagreements over land ownership and farming activities. He called on the National Boundary Commission and relevant security agencies to take proactive measures to reinforce the boundary and prevent further encroachment.
He also appealed to community leaders and youths to remain calm and law-abiding, emphasizing that dialogue remains the most effective means of resolving the dispute. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the territorial integrity of Obudu communities while ensuring sustained peace in the area.
As part of efforts to find a lasting solution, the Chairman disclosed plans for a joint inspection with his counterpart in Vandeikya Local Government Area. The proposed visit, he said, would provide an opportunity for both councils to jointly assess the situation and agree on practical steps to address the encroachment concerns.
