Tension is rising across several communities in Odukpani Local Government Area following repeated incidents of farmland destruction linked to cattle grazing.
Residents in parts of Cross River State say the situation has led to significant agricultural losses, with crops worth millions of naira destroyed. For many local farmers who rely on subsistence farming, the impact has been severe.
Communities affected include Ekemkpon, Atan Akani Obio Okoyong, Esuk Okoyong, Ikot Essien, Ikot Nyong, and Atan Okoyong, along with settlements situated along the coastal highway corridor.
According to His Highness Deno Enuo Ekpenyong-Inang Itam Ating, a traditional leader in the area, the crisis intensified after herders resumed grazing activities despite earlier opposition from residents.
He explained that tensions worsened after an earlier agreement in 2024 allowed cattle grazing in Ikot Essien, but the arrangement broke down when livestock began encroaching on neighbouring communities and destroying crops.
Local leaders say this led to a ban on open grazing, noting that the damage extended beyond pasture consumption, as crops such as cassava, pumpkin, and cucumber were uprooted.
The situation further deteriorated following retaliatory actions by some farmers, including reported killings of cattle. This, according to Ating, resulted in the death of a farmer, Mr Udo Isong Akpan, in 2024—a case handled by police authorities in Calabar.
Residents describe the conflict as ongoing, with periodic confrontations raising fears of escalation. While there were earlier claims that herders carried weapons, security agencies have disputed those reports.
Attempts by security operatives to resolve the crisis and relocate the herders have so far provided only temporary relief, as grazing reportedly resumed after initial withdrawals.
The state chapter of the Herders Association has, however, intervened. Its secretary, Usman Abubakar Mai, confirmed that herders have been directed to vacate the area.
“We are prioritising peace. The herders have been asked to leave, and the process is ongoing to avoid chaos or further destruction,” Mai said.
He added that only a few groups remain and are expected to leave soon.
Despite this move, residents remain concerned, warning that without long-term solutions to regulate grazing, tensions could escalate further
