Youths of the Oro ethnic nationality in Akwa Ibom State, represented by the Obolo Youth Coalition (OYC) and Oro Youth Movement (OYOM), are urging Governor Umo Eno to remove the Akwa Ibom State controversial map from the official 2024 state calendar.
In an open letter, the youth leaders express dismay over the inclusion of the disputed map, citing an ongoing case in the Federal High Court Uyo challenging its validity. The map, initiated during the previous administration of Mr. Udom Emmanuel, has faced opposition from the Obolo and Oro people for allegedly ceding villages and ancestral coastal regions to Ibibio land.
The youth leaders stated their displeasure with recent developments, including the Traditional Rulers Amended law categorizing them as peripheral despite their significant contributions to the state’s economic growth. They emphasize the disrespect shown by the state government, labeling the map as offensive and discriminatory.
The demands put forth include the removal of the contentious map, the appointment of commissioners from Ibeno and Eastern Obolo, and the mobilization of contractors for key road projects in their regions.
In the event that the state government fails to meet their demands regarding the map on the 2024 calendar, the youth leaders assert their intention to mobilize across Obolo land and halt the operations of oil companies in the area.
They emphasize their commitment to defending their land and unequivocally reject the idea of ceding any portion to the Ibibio people. The youth leaders conclude by expressing their expectation of respect from Governor Umo Bassey Eno and reiterate their support for his administration’s agenda.
IMAGE: BBN
