The Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti is optimistic that the ongoing boundary dispute between the Isu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area and its neighboring communities in Cross River will soon be resolved.
During a press briefing at Government House Umuahia on Monday, the Governor announced that his administration had recently sent relief supplies to the displaced residents and other at-risk individuals in the affected community.
Otti emphasized that officials in Cross River state have shown a genuine commitment to resolving the boundary disputes through peaceful means. He expressed confidence that this cooperative approach would pave the way for long-lasting peace in the affected regions.
Otti believes that both parties can achieve a harmonious resolution and restore stability to the communities involved. This commitment to diplomacy is seen as a crucial step toward ensuring sustained tranquility in the area.
“Boundary disputes can sometimes persist, but sharing a boundary often signifies a relationship, like that of brothers and sisters. Given the positive disposition of both states, I am confident we will resolve the issue,” the Governor stated.
The Deputy Governor, Chief. Ikechukwu Emetu, Deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, during a visit to Isu community assured the people of the Abia State Government's commitment to reestablishing a presence in the previously neglected area. This includes improving access roads to the boundary areas within the Isu community, extending to the natural boundary feature of the beach, and addressing other inter-state boundary issues throughout the State.
Recall that, Armed individuals from the Ukwa community in Cross River State reportedly attacked the Isu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia in May 2024. The attack claimed the life of Mrs. Blessing Kalu Elem, injured more than ten people, and caused extensive damage to livestock and property.
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President General of Isu Community, Amara Kalu, had noted that since the border conflict intensified in 2018, no fewer than 50 residents of the Isu Community have lost their lives. He also said the crisis has been there since 1985 and 1995
He also suggested that the discovery of commercially viable limestone in the area may have prompted their neighboring Cross River community to contest their ancestral land.
