A Bishop has been burnt to death, and his son beheaded in a renewed communal war between the people of Abanwan and Urugbam in Erei clan, Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State. The Bishop, whose Identity has not been disclosed was reportedly ambushed alongside his son on a motorbike on their way from Abanwan community to nearby Afikpo in Ebonyi State.
Eyewitnesses narrated that no fewer than six houses and their occupants were set ablaze as the attackers mobilized and invaded Abanwan community.The Erei communities have over the years, been at loggerheads over a piece of land that was established by defunct Eastern Region before the the Nigerian Civil War as Oil Palm Plantation Settlement.
The settlement according to sources, was handed over to the Cross River State Government shortly after the Nigerian civil war that lasted between 1967-1970 given that the location was in the state. However, the Erei community where the oil palm plantation was located has 10 villages.Meanwhile, information officer at 13 Brigade Nigerian Army Calabar, Captain Aluko, has confirmed that toops from the 13 Brigade of Nigerian Army have moved into Abanwan and Urugbam communities to restore order.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow Africa Update Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!