From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
The Cross River State Government has imposed a five-day dusk-to-dawn curfew on the troubled Ugep and Idomi communities in Yakurr Local Government Area following the renewed communal crisis between the two neighbouring communities.
The directive was announced in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, on behalf of Governor Bassey Otu.
The Ugep–Idomi conflict, which is linked to a longstanding land dispute, has led to heightened tensions and security concerns in the area in recent months.
To restore peace and prevent further violence, the state government ordered the immediate enforcement of the curfew, which will remain in force for five days or until normalcy is restored.
The decision followed a high-level peace meeting held on Thursday, June 11, 2026, and chaired by Deputy Governor Peter Odey.
The meeting was attended by officials of the State Boundary Commission, the State Surveyor-General’s office, and representatives of the two feuding communities.
According to the statement, the temporary curfew is intended to curb hostilities while government authorities pursue a lasting resolution to the dispute.
Governor Otu directed the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to ensure strict enforcement of the curfew, warning that violators would face appropriate sanctions.
However, the government clarified that vehicles using the Ugep–Ikom Highway would be allowed to move freely without obstruction, with security agencies instructed to facilitate unhindered movement along the route.
The governor also directed the Executive Chairman and Paramount Ruler of Yakurr Local Government Area, as well as clan heads and other key stakeholders from both communities, to work closely with security agencies to ensure compliance with the curfew and promote peace among residents.
The government urged residents of Ugep and Idomi to remain calm, law-abiding, and supportive of ongoing efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace in the area.
