Cocoa allocation related crises are not uncommon in cocoa producing areas. There are, probably, as old as the society and rooted in structural, historical and socio-economic dynamics; and often compelled by growing and increasing cultivation and production. Though a challenge, the government of Senator Prince Bassey Otu has put up measures to halt the escalating tension and unrest in Etomi community of Etung local government area of Cross River State.
To deescalate the growing challenges caused by the alleged disproportional incidences of cocoa allocation, the Special Adviser Assets Management & Recovery, Barr Gilbert Agbor in collaboration with the State Security Adviser (SSA) Major General Okoi Ubi Obono (rtd) and stakeholders convened a high powered meeting to discuss strategies for achieving sustainable peace and stability in the area.
The meeting which held on April 15, 2024, had in attendance critical stakeholders including the Chairman and Secretary of the Cocoa Allocation and Regeneration Committee, as well as the member representing Etomi community.
Speaking at the meeting Major General Ubi emphasized on the importance of maintaining peace and order in every nooks and crannies of the state.”
The safety and well-being of Etomi residents as well as Etung in general is of utmost priority. We must take decisive steps to resolve this crisis and prevent any further escalation of tensions. Our goal is to establish a sustainable solution that will benefit all those involved,” he said.
Underscoring the need for immediate action to restore orderliness, the Special Adviser, Barr Agbor reiterated that the situation in Etomi is disturbing and unacceptable to say the least.”
This is the time for everyone to work swiftly to address the grievances of the youths as well as the chiefs and ensure that the allocation of cocoa farms is fair and equitable for all in line with His Excellency, Governor Bassey Otu’s directives. A just resolution will help restore trust and foster peace and trust among the people,” he stated.
Considering Etung as a Cocoa hub, Barr Agbor further admonished residents of Etomi to remain hopeful as the measures agreed upon will lead to a resolution of the unrest, reassuring them of the state government’s commitment to finding a fair and lasting solution as a positive step toward achieving lasting peace and reconciliation.
The meeting yielded results as all parties agreed to work together to implement the proposed measures and maintain open lines of communication throughout the process.