CROSS RIVER/BENUE STATES — A renewed wave of violence has erupted in the long-standing communal conflict between the Obudu people of Cross River State and their Tiv neighbors from Benue State, raising fears of another deadly cycle of reprisals in a dispute that has persisted for over seven decades
By Agba Jalingo | July 20, 2025.
At least four individuals were reportedly killed on Thursday in separate incidents linked to the ongoing hostilities, despite years of interdependence and cohabitation between both communities.
Long History, Shared Lives, But Lingering Conflict
Though the conflict between the two ethnic groups is over 75 years old, their relationship has long defied the typical narratives of enmity. Intermarriages, shared markets, and joint agricultural efforts have become commonplace. Tiv traders frequently hawk goat meat, bush meat, drinks, and flour across Obudu villages. Many artisan and labor roles — including well digging and grave preparation — are largely carried out by Tiv migrants in the area.
Yet beneath this seemingly symbiotic existence lies a festering land dispute that has repeatedly sparked bloody confrontations.
Recent Violence: Killings and Arrests
According to local sources, the most recent escalation began with the alleged killing of two farmers from Abonkib and Atiekpe villages in Obudu by suspected Tiv assailants. Their bodies were reportedly taken away, sparking outrage in the host communities.
In what appears to be a reprisal, two Tiv men engaged in their usual economic activities within Obudu town were intercepted by an angry mob and brutally murdered and dismembered. A third victim narrowly escaped with his life, witnesses said.
In a related development, a suspected Tiv militia member was captured in the bush, allegedly armed and in possession of charms. He was handed over to the Obudu Police Division but was later escorted out of town to Vandeikya Police Station in Benue State — a move that has further stirred distrust among local residents.
Security Presence, But No State Intervention Yet
Local authorities say military personnel from nearby Utanga in Obanliku LGA were deployed to the area, but tensions remain dangerously high. Observers have also criticized the lack of State-level government intervention.
A peace meeting held midweek between the Chairmen of Obudu and Vandeikya Local Government Areas, alongside security representatives, failed to include any officials from the Cross River or Benue State Governments — raising questions about the seriousness and effectiveness of the talks.
“What can LG Chairmen really do in a matter this complex, beyond writing communiqués?” one resident queried anonymously.
Calls for Strategic Intervention
Security analysts and concerned locals are urging a multi-level intervention, involving the military, State authorities, and national peacebuilding stakeholders.
In the short term, there are demands for a more robust military deployment to dominate flashpoints and stabilize the region.
In the medium term, stakeholders are pointing to the unfinished work of a peace and reconciliation committee formerly co-chaired by Professor Ivara Esu, former Deputy Governor of Cross River, and his Benue counterpart. “That report should be revisited immediately,” a local leader stated.
In the long run, some have suggested that the disputed lands be acquired by the federal or state government as a buffer zone, possibly used for a Mobile Police Barracks or other neutral civic infrastructure to keep the communities apart.
Peace advocates also stress the need for continuous community engagement, arbitration efforts, and the involvement of NGOs and civil society actors to chart a sustainable path to peace.
