Police evacuate students, move to prevent escalation of Benue–Cross River communal clash
By: Zagazola Makama
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed fresh violence between communities in Vandeikya LGA of Benue and Obudu LGA of Cross River following a resurgence of a protracted land dispute.
Zagazola Makama report that the clash, which initially broke out along the border communities of Mbazerem in Vandeikya and Andabonkep in Obudu on July 18, reignited in the heart of Obudu town on Saturday.
Police sources said one adult male, identified only as Agege, a native of Tsar in Vandeikya, was reportedly beaten and possibly killed in Obudu, Cross River State. His whereabouts remain unknown as of the time of filing this report.
The development triggered heightened tension among Tiv residents in Obudu, prompting the Chairman of Vandeikya LGA to coordinate the evacuation of Tiv students from Obudu back to Benue State, under armed police protection to forestall reprisal attacks. The evacuation was conducted peacefully.
Security operatives from both states, including, were on the ground to prevent further violence and maintain calm.
In a bid to de-escalate the crisis, the Area Commanders from both states are expected to convene a peace meeting involving traditional rulers, community representatives, and police authorities from Zones 4 (Benue) and 6 (Cross River).
