Fresh Violence in Ibeno: 12 Injured, Homes Razed Amid Renewed Boundary Conflict

At least 12 people have been hospitalised and several homes destroyed following a renewed outbreak of violence in Inua Eyet Ikot, a community in Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Friday, has been blamed on suspected assailants from neighbouring Eket LGA.

The long-running boundary dispute between Eket and Ibeno LGAs over control of the Stubbs Creek Reserve has repeatedly erupted into violent clashes, leaving casualties and widespread destruction in its wake.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers stormed Inua Eyet Ikot at about 1:30 a.m., shooting sporadically and setting houses ablaze. One of the victims, identified as Mr. Daniel Asuquo, popularly known as “Dan Baba,” reportedly sustained gunshot wounds while attempting to flee and is currently receiving treatment at a local hospital.

“The attack was sudden. We heard gunshots and called the police, but the attackers had already left before they arrived,” said a resident who declined to be named. “Properties worth millions of naira were destroyed, and many residents are now displaced.”

Another witness described the invasion as the fifth in a series of recent attacks allegedly linked to Eket and Esit Eket communities. He attributed the heightened tension to controversial boundary re-mapping and adjustments initiated by the administration of former Governor Udom Emmanuel.

“Ibeno is home to key oil installations and contributes significantly to the state’s revenue. These attacks are attempts to undermine the community and its strategic relevance,” the source added.

Some victims have reportedly fled to neighbouring Eastern Obolo LGA to seek safety, further raising concerns about security and humanitarian conditions in the affected areas.

“This persistent violence is putting peace and stability in Ibeno at risk,” one displaced resident said. “It’s time for the state and federal governments to intervene decisively.”

The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, Baba Azare, confirmed the incident and said an investigation is underway.
“Our officers have been deployed to the area. We are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice,” he assured.

Community leaders and stakeholders have condemned the attack and called on Governor Umo Eno, security agencies, and relevant emergency management bodies to step in swiftly with relief materials and security reinforcements.