Insecurity: Joint Military Operation Displaces About 5,000 Residents From 12 Communities In Akwa Ibom

At least no fewer than 5,000 persons from 12 communities in the Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State have been displaced following the joint military operation which took place on Tuesday in some communities in the council.

The joint operation, which the military described as successful, was carried out to flush out armed men suspected to be members of a cult at their hideouts in Ikot Akpan forest.

The group have been terrorising and killing security operatives.

A statement by the council chairman, Mr Anthony Luke said about nine communities were seriously affected while three were partially affected.

The communities include Ntak Ikot Akpan, Ukana Uwa, Ikot Udo Ekpat, Ikot Otu, Ikot Afangna, Nto Nsek, Ikot Abia, Ikot Ankan, Ikot Ukpong Etor, Ikot Ada Utor, Nsasak, and Ikot Akpan Essiet.

However, the council chairman said reprieve has finally come to his people who had been subjected to extortion, intimidation, robbery, and general abuse of their fundamental human rights.

‘’Again, the military operations also sent shivers through the spines of the people, who for fear of being caught up in the cross-fires, have become displaced too.


‘’I have visited our displaced persons to encourage them, give them hope and assure them that they will be catered for.

‘’The council and indeed the state government are working assiduously to ensure normalcy returns so that the displaced person can return back to their homes soon even as we remain resolute and committed to the fight against criminality in the area, we will not stop until Essien Udim is safe for everyone’’ the chairman said.

He condoled the Security agencies and the families who lost their lives and properties as a result of the regrettable incident.

Source