Bassey Etim | March 30, 2026
CALABAR – The Ebijakara community in Cross River State has announced April 15, 2026, as the date for its planned return to its ancestral homeland after more than 20 years of displacement caused by a communal crisis.
The decision has been formally communicated to the Cross River State Government and relevant security agencies, with the community requesting adequate security to ensure a peaceful and orderly resettlement.
Speaking on Pulse of Unity, a radio programme on FAD 93.1 FM aimed at conflict resolution and PeaceBuilding, representatives of the Ebijakara community said the planned return follows years of dialogue, mediation, and reconciliation efforts involving traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders within the Bahumono area.
They confirmed that letters notifying authorities of their intention to return have been sent and that they are awaiting responses from government and security institutions.
During the programme, community representatives stated that their primary demand is the provision of security to enable displaced persons return safely to their homes.
They also raised concerns about the role of existing peace structures, alleging that the Bahumono Peace and Development Union has not been fully sincere in addressing key issues in the peacebuilding process. According to them, while meetings and engagements have been held, some underlying concerns affecting the community remain unresolved.
The discussion also featured contributions from callers, some of whom opposed aspects of the planned return.
A caller, Mr. John Eta, said previous peace efforts had recommended the establishment of a buffer zone between Ebijakara and neighbouring communities to prevent further conflict. He noted that the Ebijakara community had not fully accepted such arrangements and urged them to consider existing resolutions in the interest of peace.
Another caller, identified as Johnson, attributed the prolonged nature of the crisis to political factors and lack of implementation of past recommendations. He called for compromise, suggesting that the community review outcomes of earlier panels and peace processes to facilitate resolution.
Other callers raised concerns about land ownership disputes, boundary issues, and the need for broader consensus among affected communities before the return takes place.
In response, Ebijakara representatives maintained that the return is a necessary step in the overall peace process and reiterated that relevant stakeholders, including community groups and authorities, have been duly informed.
The communal crisis, which began over two decades ago, led to the displacement of residents and disruption of livelihoods in the affected area.
The April 15 date remains the timeline set by the Ebijakara community for their return, subject to arrangements by authorities and ongoing engagement with stakeholders.
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