The chairman of Ika Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State, Utibe Nwoko, has pledged to strengthen inter-community harmony and sustain cordial relations with Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State.
Speaking at a peace meeting held in Ika LGA, Nwoko emphasized that his administration will continue to promote dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and collaborative development with neighbouring communities, particularly across state borders.
Describing the meeting as epochal and increasingly familiar, the chairman noted that such engagements have consistently yielded social and political benefits, providing a platform for dialogue and peace-building. He recalled that a previous peace meeting on March 17, 2025, produced resolutions that have maintained peace between the communities to date.
Nwoko highlighted that Ikot Udo Village in Ika LGA shares a boundary with Abiaka Village in Ibeme, Obingwa LGA of Abia State, and outlined ongoing road construction projects as part of cooperative development. According to him, the initiatives include a 3.7-kilometre road from Ikot Udo through Nto Mfong and Ikot Akata to Urua Inyang, complementing work by Obingwa communities on their side. He stressed that the issues between the communities are primarily identity-related, with the Akirika Obu people seeking recognition as indigenes of Abia State, while Ikot Udo residents maintain their identity as indigenes of Ika LGA, Akwa Ibom State.
Nwoko urged that identity differences should not escalate into conflict or disrupt development projects, noting that Ika LGA has no genuine boundary dispute with Obingwa LGA. He appealed for the continuation of the road project by both state governments and called for adequate security to ensure uninterrupted work and timely completion. The chairman reiterated that residents of both states are peace-loving and committed to unity and development.
Akwa Ibom Deputy Governor Senator Dr. Akon Eyakenyi and her Abia counterpart, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, also addressed the gathering, urging the communities to embrace peace and encourage youths to engage in productive ventures rather than feud. The peace parley was attended by relevant stakeholders from both states, reflecting ongoing collaboration and commitment to harmonious inter-state relations.
