Benue–Cross River Land Dispute: Police Confirm Renewed Violence, Tiv Students Withdrawn From Obudu

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the resurgence of violence linked to the long-standing land dispute between border communities in Benue and Cross River states.

The latest hostilities, which broke out afresh on 18 July along the Mbazerem (Vandeikya LGA, Benue) and Andabonkep (Obudu LGA, Cross River) boundary, escalated further on Saturday, extending into Obudu town.

A man, identified simply as Agege, a native of Tsar in Vandeikya LGA, was reportedly attacked in Obudu. While there are unconfirmed reports suggesting he may have been killed, his body had not been recovered as of the time of filing this report.

In a proactive measure to avert reprisal attacks, the Chairman of Vandeikya LGA ordered the immediate evacuation of Tiv students from Obudu. The operation, which was carried out under armed police escort, ensured the students’ safe return to Benue State.

Meanwhile, security operatives from both states have been deployed heavily in the flashpoints to forestall further violence and restore order.

To de-escalate the tension, Area Commanders from Benue and Cross River are slated to lead a peace parley involving traditional rulers, community leaders, and senior police officers from Zones 4 and 6.