Boundary Dispute: Abia Assembly Vows to Investigate Issues, Proffer Solutions

By Ndudim Oluchukwu

The Abia State House of Assembly has taken swift action to address the recent boundary dispute between the Ariam Usaka community in Abia State and Obot Akara in Akwa Ibom State.

The dispute escalated into violence on February 2, resulting in the death of a man from the Ariam Usaka community, reportedly at the hands of invaders from Obot Akara.

In response, the Assembly has tasked its Committee on Boundary and Security Matters to work closely with Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu, who also heads the State’s Boundary Committee. Their goal is to engage with the Akwa Ibom State government to resolve the conflict peacefully.

The Assembly’s intervention followed a report from member Isienyi Boniface, who highlighted the loss of lives and destruction of property in the affected areas. The Committee will thoroughly investigate the dispute and collaborate with the Deputy Governor to secure a long-term peaceful resolution.

Furthermore, the Assembly has instructed its Committee on Boundary and Security Matters to examine a petition from the Amaegbu Community Development Association, which claims that a private mining company from Ebonyi State has encroached on their land, causing unrest within the community.

Additionally, the House has called on the State government to promote mechanized farming in the region to boost food production.