Otu sets up commission of inquiry into Ugep-Idomi communal clash

Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has constituted a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the recent communal clash between Ugep and Idomi communities in Yakurr Local Government Area of the state.

The commission, constituted through a statement issued on Wednesday by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, is chaired by retired Justice Obojor Ogar.

Peter Bassey, Esq., and Takon Takon, Esq., are members, while Justina Ogban, Esq., will serve as Counsel/Secretary. The commission is expected to conclude its assignment within three weeks.

The Ugep-Idomi conflict, involving two neighbouring communities with shared Yakurr ancestry, has resulted in tensions and violence, with reports of loss of lives, destruction of property and displacement of residents.

The inquiry is expected to investigate the immediate and remote causes of the crisis, determine the extent of casualties, property losses and displacement, and identify persons or groups found to have played roles in the conflict.

It will also recommend measures for reconciliation, peacebuilding and the prevention of further clashes between the communities.

Reacting to the development, former presidential aide and legal practitioner, Okoi Obono-Obla, commended Governor Otu for constituting the commission.

Obono-Obla described the decision as a “welcome and timely intervention,” saying a judicial inquiry would provide a credible and transparent process for establishing the facts surrounding the crisis.

He urged traditional rulers, youth and religious leaders, political actors and other stakeholders in Yakurr to cooperate with the commission.

Obono-Obla said the crisis should be treated as an opportunity for the two brotherly communities to resolve their differences and pursue lasting peace.