Tensions in Obung community, Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State, escalated into violence on August 11, 2025, when angry youths set ablaze the palace of Ntufam Ignatius Enoh, the village head. The unrest followed the controversial dismissal of nine workers from Akamkpa Quarry Limited, a development that has disrupted peace and paralyzed operations at the quarry.
The crisis began days earlier when the quarry company terminated nine employees. The sacked workers, claiming unjust treatment, refused to accept their dismissal. Protests soon turned violent, with rioters damaging property, assaulting villagers, and preventing both local and foreign workers—some of them Indian nationals—from entering the premises.
Authorities reported that police officers dispatched to the scene were met with armed resistance from the youths. A clash ensued, leaving one protester dead, several officers injured, and tensions further inflamed.
According to reports, the palace was attacked after some community members suspected the traditional ruler had informed the police about the unrest, leading to arrests.
Speaking to reporters, Ntufam Enoh denied instigating police action but admitted he could not ignore the violence.
“I cannot say that I know why they were sacked. But I tried to intervene for them to be reabsorbed to no avail. It was the company that informed the DPO, who then called for reinforcements after his men couldn’t handle the situation,” he explained.
The village head said he narrowly escaped the mob after his son alerted him. However, his palace, residence, and his son’s home were burned to the ground.
“I am appealing to the authorities to help me rebuild my home so I can have a place to lay my head,” he added.
Cross River State Commissioner of Police, Afeghja Rashid, urged the youths to disarm and refrain from confronting law enforcement officers.
“No community should challenge the police while they are carrying out lawful duties. It only increases the risk of casualties,” Rashid warned.
The Chairman of Akamkpa LGA, Felix Akposi, has held meetings with security agencies, community leaders, and the quarry’s management to restore peace.
“The barbaric acts, wanton destruction, and violence we have witnessed in Obung are completely unacceptable. No meaningful development can thrive amidst chaos and bitterness,” Akposi said.
Despite the destruction, some community leaders say there is still hope for peace. Mr. Mbey Paulinus, Assistant Community Secretary, confirmed that efforts are underway to resolve the conflict.
“We must put this behind us and embrace peace. Violence has done nothing but harm our progress,” Paulinus stated.
The situation in Obung remains tense, with security presence still visible in the area.
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