In the early hours of a Saturday morning, Inua Eyet Ikot, a community in Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom, was attacked by gunmen. These suspected armed men came from the neighboring Esit Eket Local Government Area. The attackers destroyed several public facilities, including schools, clinics, and homes, causing damage estimated at over N100 million.

The cause of the attack is believed to be connected to the ongoing construction of a petrochemical factory in the area by BUA Group. The project has caused tensions between the communities, with some people from Esit Eket claiming that the land belongs to them. After the attack, the invaders left a threatening message, warning the people of Inua Eyet Ikot to stop cooperating with the state government over the factory project.

The village council chairman, Nta Edyang, expressed deep sadness and concern over the destruction. He explained that the community was caught off guard at midnight, and many residents had to flee into the bush for safety. The attackers used tools like sledgehammers to demolish buildings that the people had worked hard to build.

Local leaders, including the paramount ruler of Ibeno, Owong Effiong Archianga, have called for peace. He emphasized that the region is rich in oil and gas, which brings benefits to the entire state, and urged both communities to find a peaceful way to resolve their differences. He also appealed to the state government to help rebuild the damaged properties and support the displaced families.

The attack has raised serious concerns about security in the area. Authorities are investigating the incident and have promised to increase security to prevent further violence. The community hopes that with efforts from local leaders and government intervention, the situation can be resolved, and peace will return to the region.