The Coalition of Aboriginal Coastal Local Government Areas in Akwa Ibom State has firmly rejected the movement advocating for the establishment of Oro-Obolo State, emphasizing their dedication to preserving the unity and territorial integrity of Akwa Ibom.
In a statement released recently, the coalition-comprising the local government areas of Eket, Esit Eket, Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin, and Onna-commended Governor Umo Eno for his resolute stance against the creation of any new state from Akwa Ibom during his tenure.
“We reiterate our unwavering position that Oro-Obolo State, or any other proposed state, cannot be formed on Ibibio land,” the statement declared. “Efforts to create new states must respect the territorial sovereignty of our people.”
The coalition expressed appreciation to Ifim Ibom Ibibio, the highest traditional authority of the Ibibio people, for rallying Ibibios both locally and internationally to oppose the proposed statehood. They characterized the initiative as a disguised attempt at territorial annexation rather than a legitimate quest for self-governance.
Support from the Annang ethnic group was also acknowledged, highlighting a united front aimed at safeguarding Akwa Ibom’s coastal areas and natural resources from what they described as a harmful scheme.
It was noted that the proponents of Oro-Obolo State have initiated legal proceedings challenging the official Akwa Ibom State map. The coalition condemned this action as an effort to alter recognized local government boundaries and seize control over key locations such as the Cross River estuary and Tom Shot Island.
Furthermore, the coalition praised the efforts of former Governor and current Senate President Godswill Akpabio for annulling the contentious 1990 Traditional Rulers Council (TRC) Edict. This edict had mistakenly placed villages from Eket, Esit Eket, Onna, Mkpat Enin, and Ikot Abasi under the jurisdictions of Ibeno and Eastern Obolo.
They reaffirmed their endorsement of the Akwa Ibom State Map Establishment Law of 2023, describing it as a comprehensive legal instrument that clearly defines the boundaries of all local government areas and effectively invalidates the Oro-Obolo statehood proposal.
“This legislation conclusively ends the agitation for a fragmented Oro-Obolo State on Ibibio territory,” the coalition emphasized.
The statement underscores profound concerns regarding ethnic identity, land ownership, and the political trajectory of Akwa Ibom State, as the coastal communities unite to resist what they perceive as territorial infringement disguised as a bid for new state creation.