The renewed controversy surrounding the 76 oil wells between Akwa Ibom and Cross River states demands urgent and decisive leadership. With Akwa Ibom’s oil revenue earnings already declining, the fresh push by Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, to reclaim the wells adds another layer of uncertainty to the state’s economic outlook. Governor Umo Eno cannot afford to remain silent on an issue that threatens Akwa Ibom’s financial stability and territorial integrity.
The 2012 Supreme Court ruling awarded these oil wells to Akwa Ibom after Cross River lost its littoral state status due to the ceding of Bakassi to Cameroon. Legally, this matter should have been resolved. However, Governor Otu’s insistence that Cross River was wrongfully deprived suggests a strategic political maneuver—one that could reopen old wounds and disrupt the stability of inter-state relations in the Niger Delta.
Even more troubling is Governor Otu’s assertion that Akwa Ibom has not received revenue from these wells for over a decade, with proceeds allegedly being held in an escrow account. If true, this raises critical concerns: Who controls these funds? Why has Akwa Ibom remained passive while its financial rights are being contested? The state government owes the people an explanation.
Governor Eno’s continued silence is not just worrisome; it is potentially costly. In the volatile Nigerian oil politics, any hesitation in defending territorial and financial rights invites further encroachment. Today, it is Cross River making claims—tomorrow, other neighboring states may follow suit, emboldened by Akwa Ibom’s inaction.
This is a moment for leadership. Governor Eno must step forward, address the people, and engage all necessary legal and political mechanisms to protect the state’s interests. The people of Akwa Ibom deserve transparency, assurance, and firm action. Anything less would be a betrayal of the mandate he swore to uphold.
