By Solomon OKPO
Uyo, Tensions continue to mount in Akwa Ibom State over the long-standing land ownership dispute at the Stubb Creek Forest Reserve, also known as Akoiyak Ekid, as civil society organisation Open Forum Care for Humanity Foundation has issued a strongly worded statement demanding justice and decisive action from the state government.
The foundation, led by Citizen Matthew Koffi Okono (MkO), expressed deep concern over the alleged illegal acquisition of ancestral Ekid land, accusing the government of complicity through silence. The group cited multiple appeals and public protests by the people of Eket, Esit Eket, and Ibeno, who claim ownership of the land based on historical and judicial precedents dating back over a century.
Referencing a widely circulated press statement by the Eket People’s Union (EPU), Open Forum highlighted accusations against the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Lands, described by the EPU as orchestrating the “largest organized criminal confiscation of Ekid ancestral land in history.” The EPU further criticized Governor Umo Eno for failing to halt what they allege is a multi-billion naira land racket, challenging the Governor to revoke all certificates of occupancy “fraudulently” issued in the disputed area.
Although Governor Eno previously revoked certificates issued between May and August 2023 and removed top land officials from office, Open Forum noted that specific grievances regarding Stubb Creek remain unresolved. They recalled how youth protests nearly disrupted a religious event hosted by the Governor earlier this year, underscoring the growing frustration among locals.
Adding to the controversy, Open Forum condemned the recent intervention by the Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council, which summoned Princess God’sown Udoito, a traditional worshipper and activist from Esit Eket, over her shrine-based protest involving symbolic rituals. The group criticized the council’s focus on her actions rather than addressing the root issue — the unresolved land dispute.
A video of the traditional summons involving royal emissaries sparked outrage and raised questions about the priorities of the traditional institution. Open Forum lamented what it described as an embarrassing episode and called for discretion, better advisory structures within royal palaces, and the protection of sacred traditions from political manipulation.
The group also took a swipe at the broader political class and influential figures in the state, decrying their silence on the matter. “Everything should not be left to the Governor,” the statement said, warning that many who should be solving crises are instead enabling them.
Open Forum urged a holistic and justice-driven resolution to the Stubb Creek issue, stressing that past hostilities over the land must not be allowed to reoccur. It appealed for the establishment of Palace Advisory Councils to support traditional rulers in decision-making and cautioned against dragging the institution into political controversies.
The Ibeno Clan Council, on the other hand, maintains that Stubb Creek is historically their territory, accusing EPU of misinformation. This counterclaim has further escalated the tension, with the Eket side rejecting the Ibeno position and questioning the authenticity of its spokesperson.
With accusations, historical claims, and administrative silence converging into a volatile mix, Open Forum concluded with a warning: “A stitch in time over this and other troubling issues in the State shall not only save nine but protect the reputation and safety of about nine million citizens and residents.”
