From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed that normalcy has returned to the warring communities of Ofatura and Ovonum in Obubra Local Government Area of the state following a communal clash.
The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Etokpa, confirmed the development in a statement issued to journalists in Calabar.
He said the clash erupted following a report of alleged cassava theft, which was later discovered to be linked to a land dispute between the two communities.
“The command confirms that a communal misunderstanding occurred between Ofatura and Ovonum communities in Obubra Local Government Area following a report of alleged cassava theft, which was later discovered to be connected to a land dispute,” the statement said.
According to the police spokesperson, the situation was brought under control after the intervention of the command, which facilitated peaceful dialogue between the communities.
He added that both parties agreed to embrace peace and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
The police also assured residents that security personnel would continue to monitor the area to ensure the sustenance of peace and order.