In response to the escalating incidents of kidnappings in Nde 3-Corners, Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State, a group of youths organized a peaceful protest. Led by Kenneth Kajang from the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) and Bassey Nton of the National Youth Assembly of Nigeria (NYAN), the demonstration aimed to draw attention to the dire security situation in their community.
Displaying placards with various messages, the youths voiced their concerns over the recent surge in kidnappings and killings, creating an atmosphere of fear among residents.
Commencing at the Nde 3-Corners Health Center, the procession concluded at the Palace of the Clan Head of Nde, HRH Nton-aton Engineer Nton Bassey Nsan. Expressing gratitude for the peaceful protest, HRH Nton-aton urged government and security agencies to intensify efforts in addressing the activities of gunmen not only in Nde but throughout Ikom Local Government Area.
Chairman of NYCN Ikom, Comrade Kenneth Kajang, emphasized the collective need for heightened security consciousness in response to the prevailing insecurity, stating, “We are tired of kidnapping and killings in Nde.”
Ambassador Bassey Nton, Speaker of NYAN, underscored the paramount importance of peace and highlighted the community’s fear since November 2023. The youth leaders, including Comrade Esenebe Ngoro and Youth Councillor Comrade Ayuk Ekebe, conveyed the challenges faced by the youth in pursuing the gunmen due to their sophisticated weapons.
The youths collectively called on government officials, including Governor Bassey Otu, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams, and others, to address the ongoing security issues, particularly along the Calabar-Ikom-Nde-Ogoja-Benue federal highway. The protest concluded with prayers and a visit to victims of gunshots at Bakor Hospital, Nde 3-Corners.
IMAGE: Cross River Watch
