Ekori Peace Accord at risk as Yakurr group appeals for restraint in land dispute

By Okpashi Odama

The Yakurr Peoples Club (YPC), Abuja, has appealed to the Ugep and Idomi communities in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State to remain calm and adopt peaceful dialogue in resolving the ongoing land dispute between them.

In a statement jointly signed by the President of YPC, Group Captain Eloma Ekpo Ikona (Rtd), and the Secretary-General, Omini Oden, the group expressed concern over the growing tension and cautioned against any outbreak of violence. It noted that such actions would amount to a direct violation of the Ekori Peace Accord of 2017.
The statement described the accord, brokered under the Yakurr Peace Mission, as a historic agreement binding all Yakurr communities to peaceful coexistence.
YPC further characterised the Ekori Accord as a critical framework for maintaining unity, peace, and mutual respect across the local government area, warning that any community that resorts to violence would face both communal and institutional repercussions.
“No grievance or territorial disagreement justifies bloodshed among brothers,” the group stated.
To avert further escalation, the club called for an immediate reduction of tensions, a halt to inflammatory statements, restraint in youth mobilisation, and a return to lawful and traditional mechanisms for resolving disputes.
The group stressed that the progress and dignity of the Yakurr people depend on a peaceful environment, warning that history would judge any leader or actor whose actions trigger avoidable conflict.
It added that the Ekori Peace Accord was achieved through sacrifice and should not be undermined by reckless behaviour, noting that Yakurr communities have moved past internal conflicts and must not relapse into violence.
Reiterating its commitment to peace, the YPC urged all stakeholders to prioritise dialogue over confrontation.
“Peace is not weakness; it is the highest expression of responsible leadership. Yakurr must not fight Yakurr — not again, not now, not ever,” the statement concluded.