Tension In Cross River State As Soldiers Block Obubra LG Chairman From Troubled Community

Troops of the Nigerian Army have prevented the Chairman of Obubra Local Government Area, Kingsley Arikpo, from entering Odonget community following a deadly clash linked to illegal mining.

The soldiers, deployed from the 13 Brigade and 245 Battalion at Edor Barracks in Ikom, have taken control of the area after violence broke out between local youths and suspected illegal miners.

The situation reportedly escalated into a confrontation between the troops and the youths, during which two soldiers were killed. Four residents also lost their lives, while several others sustained injuries.

The unrest has displaced many residents, who have fled to neighbouring communities such as Ochon, Iyamoyom, and Alesi since March 11, 2026.

Some displaced persons have alleged that they have been barred from returning to the community, even to recover or bury the bodies of relatives who died during the violence.

Confirming the development, Arikpo said he was denied entry when he tried to visit Odonget in his official capacity.

“I attempted to access the community as chairman, but the soldiers refused me entry,” he said.

He explained that he was only able to enter the area after accompanying retired Major General Obono Ubi, now serving as Special Adviser to Governor Bassey Otu.

Arikpo described the situation as highly tense, noting that the military still maintains control of the community, while illegal mining activities are reportedly ongoing.

Meanwhile, a youth leader, Theo Abeng, who is currently taking refuge in Ochon, alleged that he and others were shot at when they attempted to return to Odonget to bury victims of the clash.

He claimed that one person was killed during the attempt, further heightening fear among displaced residents.

Attempts to get an official response from the Nigerian Army were unsuccessful, as the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Major Yemi Sokoya, could not be reached.

However, in an earlier statement issued on March 12, the army defended its intervention, stating that its presence in the community is necessary to restore peace and order.