Obanliku Chairman Hon Sunny Ayang Convenes Security Stakeholders, Adopts Key Measures on Insecurity, Inaugurates Joint Task Force

The Executive Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Council, Hon. Chief (Dr.) Sunny Ebebe Ayang, JP, on Wednesday, June 18, hosted an enlarged security council meeting at the Civic Center, Sankwala, to address pressing security concerns within the LGA.

The high-level meeting brought together critical stakeholders including security agencies, traditional rulers, leaders of the Fulani community, political leaders, youth representatives, and actors from various sectors.

In his opening address, Hon. Ayang emphasized the need for collective responsibility and collaboration to ensure lasting peace and safety in Obanliku. He cautioned against the criminal act of land sub-selling and advised that all land transactions must follow due process through the Local Government’s Land Regularization Committee, with landowners obtaining the Consent Certificate of Occupancy (CCO). He further directed all landowners to regularize their land documents within one month.

Hon. Ayang expressed deep concern over the influx of unidentified Fulani herdsmen into Obanliku, particularly in light of recent violent incidents in neighboring Benue State. While acknowledging the peaceful coexistence with Fulani residents over the years, he stressed that such peace must not be taken for granted or jeopardized.

Key Security Concerns Highlighted:

* Illegal mining activities
* Indiscriminate sale of land
* Infiltration of Fulani herdsmen
* Unregulated issuance of residence permits
Resolutions Adopted:
1. No traditional ruler shall issue Certificates of Consent to miners; any previously issued certificates stand revoked.

2. All Fulani residents are to be identified and profiled to distinguish genuine community members.

3. Grazing on farmlands is prohibited.

4. No new Fulani settlers shall be allowed into Obanliku; traditional rulers who facilitate such settlements will face sanctions.

5. Fulani community leaders must report all new arrivals or infiltrations, or risk punitive action.

In a goodwill remark, Alhaji Yusuf Usman, Chief Imam of Obudu and Chairman of the Council of Imams in Cross River State, reiterated that peace and security are non-negotiable. He noted that Hausa/Fulani communities have lived peacefully in Obanliku since 1912. He also called on traditional rulers to stop enabling the infiltration of unauthorized herdsmen, assuring the Chairman of his people’s commitment to peacebuilding efforts.

Committees Inaugurated:

* Joint Task Force on Illegal Mining led by Chief Linus Afen, Obanliku’s Community Relations Officer.

* Committee on the Assessment and Regularization of Schools Owned by Non-Nigerians, chaired by Hon. (Amb.) Glory Awowoh, Vice Chairman of Council.

In his closing remarks, Hon. Ayang expressed appreciation to all participants for their contributions and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the security architecture in Obanliku. He noted that the resolutions would boost community vigilance and enhance the local government’s capacity to ensure a safe and secure environment for all.