Residents of Ibeno Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State staged a solidarity rally on Saturday to demonstrate their support for the Federal Government’s Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project, which passes through their territory. They also commended Governor Umo Eno for his handling of the disputed oil-rich Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve.
Clad in white, the residents defied the scorching sun, marching through major streets while chanting songs of solidarity and carrying placards with messages such as “Dialogue not dispute, Ibeno is for peace,” “Ibeno says yes to coastal highway,” and “Ibeno is the host of Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve.” The rally concluded at the Ibeno Local Government Secretariat.
The ownership of the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve has long been contested, generating tension between Eket and Ibeno communities. While the Eket people cite a 1918 judgment by the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council to claim ownership, the Akwa Ibom State government, through Commissioner for Justice Uko Udom (SAN), clarified that the historic case did not vest ownership in any ethnic group or community, a statement that has helped dispel misconceptions.
Addressing the gathering, Ibeno Vice-Chairman Pharmacist Ukpong Okon, representing Executive Chairman Mrs. Glory Effiong, expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Eno for their leadership. She emphasized that the residents support the highway project and praised the peaceful approach of the youth rally. “Ibeno is a hub of investors because of our numerous mineral resources along the coast. The government’s clarification should put to rest any claims or misunderstandings,” she said.
However,Mr. Diamond Akpanika, spokesperson of the Ibeno Elders’ Forum, expressed excitement over the Federal Government’s initiatives, describing them as beneficial for local development and investment. The residents reiterated their support for the highway, noting that it would open the area to investors and promote economic growth.
