No fewer than five persons were reportedly killed during few days of suspected rival cult clash in the Camp 2 Mfamosing community of Akamkpa LGA, Cross River State.
The clash reportedly stemmed from a superiority contest by young men over a particular girl friend.
According to farmers in Camp 2, one of the boys overpowered and reportedly killed the rival.
“When news got to friends of the deceased, they also launched a reprisal attack, resulting in the death of a member of another gang.
“This has led to death of five persons yet, and vandalisation of shops. The gangs even confronted armed police units that initially came to restore peace”, Madam Rose Akpan who lives in the camp volunteered.
The restive youths were also alleged to have engaged in persistent theft activities and attempted to unlawfully harvest palm fruits from the Wilmar Oil Palm Estates
The clash led to many farmers, investors and community members fleeing the camp.
But the intervention led by the State Security Adviser to the Governor, Maj. Genral Okoi Obono (Rtd), Nigerian Police Force and Chairman of Akamkpa LGA, Felix Akposi successfully restored peace and normalcy to Camp 2, Mfamosing, and the affected adjoining communities.
A statement signed by Daniel Agbor, press secretary Akamkpa LGA said only two security personnel engaged by the palm fruits estate were killed.
“In the ensuing confrontation with security operatives guarding the estate, one of the intruders was fatally wounded.
“In retaliation, elements from Camp 2 launched an attack on Mfamosing community, resulting in the death of a former security staff of Wilmar and the displacement of residents.
“In a swift response, three tactical police units were deployed under the supervision of the Divisional Police Officer of Akamkpa to quell the violence, restore order, and secure the affected communities.
“The joint security team also interfaced with the management of Wilmar to enhance collaboration and strengthen future security arrangements.
“Normalcy has now returned to the area, and the bodies of the two deceased individuals have been deposited in the mortuary pending further investigation,” he said.
The Akamkpa LGA chairman assured of committment to maintaining peace, protecting lives and property, and ensuring that the rule of law prevails across all communities within the local government area.
“We want to reassure all residents and investors that Akamkpa remains a peaceful and resilient local government area.
“Our administration is fully committed to supporting security agencies to safeguard every community,” he stated.
He warned all dissident groups that Akamkpa will not be a safe haven for them.
“We will deploy all lawful measures, in collaboration with security agencies, to bring perpetrators to justice and ensure that order is maintained at all times,” he vowed.
