Fresh violence has again erupted along the Ikom–Obubra border despite Governor Bassey Otu’s ongoing peace efforts to end the persistent communal clashes between Alesi, Ekukunela and Agbaragba communities in Ikom Local Government Area, and Ochon, Isabang and Odonget in Obubra.

Several persons were reportedly shot on Saturday, October 11, 2025, when armed men invaded cocoa farms around Mfam Osusoh Okpon, a border settlement between Okosora in Ofutop in Ikom LGA, and Onye Okpon in Obubra LGA.

One of the victims, identified as Junior Ebi Anara, a youth from Okosora Clan, was shot while attempting to prevent the invaders from carting away harvested cocoa pods from the disputed farmland.

Eyewitnesses said the clash began when some youths mobilised to stop the attackers from stealing their crops.

“When we heard that those men had gone to steal our cocoa, we went to stop them. We told them to leave our farm, but one of them suddenly opened fire. One of us was shot, and the rest ran for their lives,” a witness said through an interpreter.

The victim’s father recounted how he received the tragic news. “I was at home when people came to tell me that my son had been shot at the farm. I went with them and rushed him to the hospital. They said he was only trying to stop the men from taking away our cocoa,” he explained.

It was not immediately clear who led the armed group into the disputed area, but residents said the recurring attacks have heightened tension and fear among farmers, many of whom have since abandoned their farms.

The incident marks the third attack on farmers in the Ikom–Obubra border communities since Governor Otu began peace talks and directed both sides to maintain the status quo while government works toward a lasting settlement.

Observers say the renewed hostility has cast doubts over the fragile peace process, as residents continue to call for stronger security presence.

Many shot, others flee as clash between Ikom, Obubra communities resurface Cross River