Calls grow for coordinated security response as communities affected by long-running tensions remain displaced
BOKI, CROSS RIVER STATE — Concerns over security in parts of Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State have intensified following the reported disappearance of two sons of Osokom who were travelling from Eastern Boki to Bansan Osokom on 5 August 2026.
According to information circulating among community members, the two men reportedly went missing while travelling through the Boje–Nsadop–Isobendeghe axis. Their whereabouts remain a matter of concern, and calls have been made for the relevant security authorities to establish what happened to them.
The incident comes against the backdrop of longstanding tensions involving Boje, Nsadop and Isobendeghe, which have historically been associated with disputes over land and community boundaries.
However, residents and community stakeholders say the security situation has increasingly taken on a more serious dimension, with allegations involving armed robbery, theft, cult-related activities and other forms of criminality.
Communities Living in Fear
The continuing insecurity has reportedly forced some residents to leave their communities, with affected families reluctant to return until they are confident that adequate security is in place.
Local government authorities have established a conflict-resolution committee and invited affected families and communities to participate in efforts aimed at addressing the underlying disputes.
While dialogue remains important, community stakeholders argue that conflict resolution must be accompanied by effective security measures and proper investigation of alleged criminal activities.
The reported disappearance of the two Osokom men has therefore renewed calls for security agencies to investigate incidents along the affected routes and establish whether the disappearance is connected to the wider insecurity in the area.
Beyond Community Disputes
For some Boki stakeholders, the present situation can no longer be treated solely as a traditional or communal disagreement.
There are growing concerns that criminal elements may be exploiting existing tensions and insecurity to operate within vulnerable communities. There are also concerns about the influence of criminal activities on young people and the possibility of violence becoming normalised among the next generation.
These concerns have prompted comparisons with earlier periods of insecurity that left lasting scars on communities in the region.
However, allegations of organised criminal activity should be investigated by the appropriate authorities, with those found responsible brought before the law.
A Call for Boki Leaders to Act
Against this background, calls are growing for traditional rulers, political leaders, community leaders, youth representatives and other stakeholders across Boki to work together to prevent further deterioration of the security situation.
The protection of human life and property, community peace and the safe movement of residents must remain a priority above political, personal or sectional interests.
A coordinated response involving the Cross River State Government, local government authorities, traditional institutions, security agencies and affected communities could help address both the immediate security concerns and the underlying disputes.
The reported disappearance of the two Osokom men should, in particular, receive prompt attention, with their families entitled to clear information about the circumstances surrounding their disappearance.
Time for a Collective Response
Boki’s communities have experienced difficult periods of conflict and displacement. Allowing insecurity to become entrenched could have serious consequences for social cohesion, economic activity and the future of the area.
The current moment therefore calls for restraint, cooperation and decisive action.
Rather than allowing fear and suspicion to deepen existing divisions, stakeholders can work together to ensure that disputes are addressed through lawful mechanisms, criminal allegations are properly investigated, and communities are protected.
Boki must not be allowed to become a place where insecurity, violence and criminality are normalised.
The disappearance of two Osokom men should serve as another reminder of the urgency of the situation.
Well meaning Boki people are calling on all relevant authorities and community stakeholders to work together to establish the facts, protect residents and pursue peaceful and lawful solutions to the challenges affecting the affected communities.
