The peace in Akwa Ibom State is under threat following a serious accusation by the state governor against an entire ethnic group. The Ekid People's Union has strongly rejected being labeled as 'terrorists' by Governor Umo Eno.
Governor's Remarks Spark Widespread Anger
This conflict started on 5 January 2026 when Governor Umo Eno made controversial comments. He was speaking at the commissioning of a Model Health Centre in Nduo Eduo, located in Eket Local Government Area. During his speech, the governor described Ekid communities as 'terrorists'. He said this was because they opposed what they call illegal land dealings inside the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve.
The reaction from the Ekid people was swift and firm. The Board of Trustees of the Ekid People's Union issued a detailed statement. The statement was signed by its Chairman, Chief Nduese Essien. The EPU accused Governor Eno of fueling tension and putting the state's peace in danger.
Chief Essien called the governor's words unjust and inflammatory. He said such language is not fitting for a leader. He warned that this kind of rhetoric could turn a lawful civic disagreement into a full-blown conflict. "It is painful and deeply troubling that a people who have consistently acted within the bounds of the law are now being criminalised," Essien stated.
A History of Support and a 'Painful Irony'
The EPU statement reminded the public of Governor Eno's long connection to Ekid land. The governor lived and worked among the Ekid people for more than 35 years before taking office. The union pointed out that these are the same people who welcomed him, supported his businesses, and voted for him to become governor.
"To now label them terrorists is a painful irony history will not forget," Essien declared. He acknowledged the new health centre as a welcome project, a 'gift of life' at Christmas. However, he made it clear that gratitude does not mean silence in the face of injustice. Goodwill projects cannot excuse the public insult of an entire ethnic group.
The Real Issue: Land Rights and Due Process
The core of the dispute is not opposition to development, the EPU insists. The group clarified that Ekid communities are not against major projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. Their problem is with what they see as unlawful land acquisition.
According to the union, land within the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve is being allocated to private investors without following the law. This is happening without proper consultation, without the consent of the people, and without paying compensation. "Insisting on due process in land acquisition is not hostility to development," Essien explained. "It is a legitimate demand grounded in law, citizenship and respect for indigenous rights."
The EPU stressed that its earlier warnings were not meant to stop development. Instead, they were a caution to investors about illegal land racketeering in the reserve. The union also defended its President, Dr. Samuel Udonsak, stating he acts with the full authority of the Ekid people and is their recognized spokesman.
Legal and Environmental Stakes Are High
The Ekid People's Union bases its claim on strong legal grounds. They cited a 1918 judgment from the Privy Council. This judgment affirmed Ekid ownership of the swamps east of the Qua Iboe River. They also referred to the Akwa Ibom State Map Law of 2023. The union insists that Ekid territorial rights remain valid, even though the area is designated a forest reserve.
Beyond the law, the environmental concerns are major. The EPU described Stubbs Creek as one of the last major forest ecosystems in Akwa Ibom State. It is critical for controlling floods, protecting biodiversity, and supporting traditional livelihoods. Unchecked development there could have grave consequences.
The union's final call is for peace and dialogue. Chief Essien urged Governor Eno to withdraw his hostile words. He asked the governor to control his political supporters who are spreading the negative narrative. Most importantly, he called for genuine dialogue with Ekid stakeholders.
"Defending our land through lawful means is not terrorism," Essien concluded. "It is responsible citizenship, rooted in the rule of law and a duty to generations yet unborn." The ball is now in the governor's court to respond and find a peaceful resolution to this escalating dispute.
