The Executive Chairman of Yakurr Local Government Area, Hon. Yibala Inyang, has issued a strong peace directive outlining urgent measures to address the ongoing skirmishes between the Ugep and Idomi communities in the area.
This directive follows a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held at Government House in Calabar, convened by the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Peter Odey. The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including Hon. Yibala Inyang, Obol Lopon of Ugep, Obol Ofem Ubana, the Obol Lopon of Idomi, Obol Ofem Inah Edet; the State Security Adviser, Major General Okoi Ubi Obono (rtd); and the State Surveyor General, Surv. Patrick Edet Bassey, alongside other community leaders and government officials.
According to the statement, the government has ordered the immediate deployment and reinforcement of security personnel across the affected areas. Security agencies have been placed on high alert, with clear instructions to enforce law and order strictly. Residents are urged to cooperate fully with security operatives, as any breach of peace will attract firm legal consequences.
In a move to promote dialogue, traditional rulers from neighboring Yakurr communities, Nkpani, Ekori, Nko, and Agoi, have been engaged to mediate between the two communities. The initiative, led by the council chairman and his deputy, Hon. Keppy Obeten, is aimed at de-escalating tensions and restoring calm through traditional leadership structures.
Meanwhile, the Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Edet Otu, has approved a dusk-to-dawn curfew from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. in and around the affected communities. The curfew remains in full force, with strict enforcement measures in place, and violators will face immediate sanctions.
The government has also declared the disputed area strictly off-limits to all persons until further notice, describing the directive as binding and non-negotiable. Anyone found within the restricted zone will be apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Chairman calls on youths, community leaders, and stakeholders in both Ugep and Idomi to exercise restraint and avoid actions capable of escalating the situation. He further warns against the spread of misinformation and incitement, emphasizing that maintaining peace is a collective responsibility.
Yakurr Local Government Council Chairman reiterates its commitment to achieving a fair, transparent, and lasting resolution through lawful engagement and structured dialogue.
The peace and security of Yakurr remain paramount and will be protected and enforced with the full authority of government.
Signed:
Mr. Isaac Otu
Chief Press Secretary
Yakurr Local Government Council
May 6, 2026
