The Ekid People’s Union (EPU) has issued a formal quit notice to the Ibeno people, asserting that the land they currently occupy legally belongs to the Ekid Nation. This development was disclosed during a presentation by the EPU to the Akwa Ibom State Land Use Allocation Committee in Uyo on Thursday, January 16, 2025.
In a position paper signed by Dr. Samuel Udonsak, President-General of the EPU, the union stated that its actions are backed by the Paramount Rulers of Eket and Esit Eket, as well as a Power of Attorney granted by the Ekid people. The EPU further revealed that it had petitioned the Attorney-General of the Federation, National Security Adviser, Director-General of the State Security Service, and the Inspector General of Police over the alleged illegal occupation by the Ibeno people.
“The land occupied by Ibeno people today is Ekid land,” the statement read, referencing a Privy Council judgment of 1918 that affirmed Ekid’s ownership of the disputed territory. “We have notified the authorities and the Ibeno people of our resolve to peacefully reclaim our land.”
The EPU also addressed ongoing disputes involving BUA Group, which has established operations in the contested Stubbs Creek Forest. While commending BUA’s investment in refinery and petrochemical projects, the union criticized the Akwa Ibom State Government for allegedly misleading investors regarding land ownership.
“The government has no legal basis to allocate the Stubbs Creek Forest, which belongs to the Ekid people,” the EPU asserted. “Any acquisition of land in the Stubbs Creek Forest must follow due process: deregistration of the reserve, negotiation with Ekid landowners, and issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the government.”
The union emphasized the historical and legal context of the land, citing the Forest Reserve Ordinance of 1948 and subsequent amendments, which it argued do not negate Ekid’s ownership of the Stubbs Creek Forest. It also highlighted the precedent set by ExxonMobil’s acquisition of land within the forest, which involved compensation to Ekid landowners.
The EPU warned against further encroachments by private and corporate entities, including BUA, Chinese mining companies, and other developers. “Any activities or structures on illegally acquired land will be considered null and void and will face demolition or termination,” it declared.
The union reaffirmed its commitment.
