The Executive Chairman of Obanliku, Hon. Sunny Ayang, on Tuesday, met with representatives of Bayalele and Kabun communities of Basang Ward, including the Basang Development Association and the Divisional Police Officer, at his office to intervene in the crisis between the two concerned communities to restore and sustain peaceful coexistence.
Recently, the two neighboring communities were engaged in a clash whose root cause is yet to be substantiated. The situation led to assault, attempted murder, destruction of properties, and looting of properties worth millions of naira from the affected individuals. The prompt intervention of the Obanliku Divisional Police Officer ( DPO ), CSP Lasbrey, led to the arrest of some suspects and accomplices as well as the recovery of some looted items, including motorcycles.
The Basang Development Association (BDA) President, Hon. Anyawho, who spoke on behalf of the Basang communities, appealed for the release of the detainees to enable them to get back home and wade into the matter through a traditional approach that will ensure lasting peace between the conflicting communities. He emphasized that there is no historical trace of a crisis between the two communities. Hence, he is optimistic that the matter will be resolved. The chairman of the Basang Traditional Rulers Association and chiefs of the affected communities also spoke in support of their resolve towards handling the matter in the traditional setting if the DPO hid their appeal.
The DPO, however, expressed his readiness to grant the detainees bail if conditions are met and proper approval is sought from the Cross River State Commissioner of Police, considering the gravity of the case instituted.
The Chairman of Council, Hon. Sunny Ayang, in his response, admonished both parties to see themselves as brothers and, hence, should avoid any situation to tear them apart. He added that as a “Home man for the Home job”, he believes this matter can be handled at the customary level, adding that the traditional heads of both conflicting communities should attest their readiness to support the police by providing the suspects and accomplices whenever the need arises. He further expressed his readiness to collaborate with the Commissioner of Police and the communities towards ensuring the return of peace to the troubled communities.
A highlight of the meeting was a handshake by the chiefs with the executive chairman, signifying a peaceful resolution. The Vice President of BDA, Ukpangvum Godwin, thanked the Chairman for a swift intervention while assuring him that peace will certainly return to the area.
The meeting, which was well attended, had the Vice chairman of the council, Secretary, Obanliku CRO, DPO, Special Adviser on Peace and Security, Legal Adviser, BDA president, and his vice, Basang Chiefs, among others in attendance.
By Kayang, Emmanuel E
