By Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
Following the gruesome beheading of two persons in Akai Ibonda and Ukim Ita communities in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State last month, chiefs and traditional leaders in the area have resolved to invoke traditional injunctions against criminal elements operating within the council area.
Our correspondent reports that the community leaders, who convened a congress attended by key stakeholders and prominent indigenes, adopted a five-point action plan aimed at preventing a recurrence of such incidents and restoring peace to the affected communities.
Recall that one Akaninyene Eshiet and others were arrested by security agents for allegedly killing two persons, Okon Bassey and Okon Akpan Eshiet, and dumping their dismembered bodies in shallow graves.
The incident sparked widespread outrage and demands for justice from residents of the two communities.
Speaking after village heads, youth leaders, women groups, and other stakeholders expressed concern over the killings, Etubom (Arch.) Bassey Eyo Ndem, Etubom Edem Ita Essien, and Etubom Efiom Eyo Ekpo disclosed that the proposed traditional injunction would target anyone involved in such heinous acts.
They warned criminals and their collaborators to leave the area, stressing that the coming days would be difficult for those engaged in criminal activities.
Elaborating on the decision, Etubom Ndem said: “In conjunction with the Cross River State Government, we have reorganised the security architecture in our local communities involving village heads and youth leaders.
“The new arrangement will be reinforced with a potent traditional injunction. We caution that this injunction will affect anybody who enters or resides in our community with blood on their hands.”
The Chairman of Odukpani Local Government Council, Hon. Etim Asido, represented by the Council Secretary, described the serial killings as “cruel” and assured residents that the council would support all lawful measures aimed at eradicating such crimes from the area.
He also reaffirmed the commitment of the Cross River State Government to ensuring that such incidents do not recur in Odukpani or any other part of the state.
The community leaders noted that they had long been working towards peaceful coexistence and conflict resolution and expressed optimism that the new measures would help strengthen security and restore public confidence.
