Communal clashes: Akwa Ibom Rep, Etteh, sues for peace in Eket constituency

The member representing Eket/ONNA/Esit Eket/Ibeno federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Okpolupm Etteh, has appealed to his constituents to embrace peace and prosperity rather than incessant fighting that result in huge destruction of lives and properties.

He also called on churches in the federal constituency to pray for peace and restoration of the spirit of togetherness and coexistence in the land.

Tribune Online recalls that there has been incessant invasion and attack between the Ibeno people and members of the Coalition of Coastal Aboriginal Communities of Akwa Ibom with latest being the one of early hours of February 27, 2024, which resulted in the killing of over 10 persons and scores sustaining various degrees of injuries.

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Hon. Etteh, in a written communication to the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigerian (CAN), Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and Churches in Eket, ONNA, Esit Eket and Ibeno Local Government Areas, said “I am writing to the Church with a heavy heart but also with hope and faith in the power of prayer.

“As a Church, we are bound together not only by our shared beliefs but also by our commitment to the well-being and prosperity of our people and community. As the representative of Eket/ONNA/Esit Eket/Ibeno Federal Constituency, it is both my duty and privilege to reach out to the Church to seek its support in a matter of grave importance to our Federal Constituency.

“Our peaceful and harmonious Federal Constituency is currently threatened by unrest, discord, conflict, division, and all manners of social tension. I am deeply convinced that these challenges can be surmounted if we turn to the source of all strength and solace, which is our faith in the Almighty God. It is with this belief in mind that I humbly appeal to you and the congregation to join hands in prayer for peace and harmony to be restored in our Federal Constituency.” 

“As a member of the body of Christ, I further appeal to the Church to beseech the Almighty God to shower His blessings upon our land, to guide our dear Governor and other leaders with wisdom, and to imbue our hearts with love, compassion, and goodwill towards one another. The fervent prayer of the Church is deeply appreciated. It will undoubtedly have a profound impact on our land and people,” the letter maintained.