The member representing Eket/ONNA/Esit Eket/Ibeno Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Okpolupm Etteh, has appealed to residents of his constituency to embrace peace and unity, amidst the eruption of tensions and violence in Eket, Esit Eket and Ibeno Local Government Areas of Akwa Ibom State.
Eket, Esit Eket and Ibeno local governments of the state have been embroiled in crises over the ownership of Stubb Creeks.
Latest protests over the matter have led to loss of lives and the destruction of properties for all parties.
Worried by the situation, the House of Rep member, in a press release he signed, urged all parties to exercise restraint and embrace dialogue, especially as the bone of contention in the crisis IS pending resolution by the Federal High Court, Uyo Judicial Division.
He described the crisis as avoidable, noting that the event which led to the tragic loss of lives and the destruction of properties has deepened wounds and sowed seeds of discord among them.
Etteh implored, “We must, as a people, against all odds and provocations, attach greater importance to lawful and peaceful coexistence and mutual respect for one another, ancestral origins notwithstanding. The inciting comments and publications which have heightened tensions leading to disruptions to the daily lives of the ordinary people of our Federal Constituency were most unnecessary and highly regrettable. We can speak and do better than we have done in this unfortunate situation.”
He lauded Governor Umo Eno for his “timely intervention and prioritising the safety of lives and property, saying that it is unimaginable what would have happened if the governor did not intervene timeously.
“May God provide us all the opportunity to rebuild trust, strengthen our bonds, and chart a course towards sustainable development and prosperity for our Federal Constituency vis-à-vis Akwa Ibom State.” He prayed.
