A simmering boundary dispute between Akirika Community in Abia State and a neighboring community in Akwa Ibom State boiled over on March 21, 2025, as youths from Akwa Ibom launched an attack, undermining recent peace initiatives by both state governments.
Sources informed Zagazola Makama that the assault began around 9:00 a.m., just days after a joint visit by the Deputy Governors of Abia and Akwa Ibom on March 17. During that visit, the officials had reassured residents that a peaceful resolution was in progress, with stakeholders and youth leaders from both sides vowing to maintain calm. “They assured both parties that a peaceful resolution was being worked out,” the sources recalled. Yet, the following day, tensions snapped as Akwa Ibom youths reportedly stormed Akirika, reigniting the conflict.
Truth Live News learnt that in a swift response, a police team led by the Akwete Area Commander descended on the scene, engaging local leaders and youths. The commander urged restraint, pleading with residents “to avoid reprisal attacks as the two state governments were actively working towards a lasting resolution.”
The flare-up has cast a shadow over efforts to settle the long-running dispute, raising fears of further violence if a durable solution remains elusive.