Nine children from Ndito Eka Iba village in Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State remain unaccounted for following a violent assault on their community on Christmas Eve, 2024.
The attack, allegedly carried out by individuals from Esit-Eket and Eket LGAs, is linked to a long-standing boundary dispute.
Residents, particularly parents and youths, have expressed deep concern over the fate of the missing children.
Youth leader Ukot Robert stated that some parents have lost hope of finding their children alive, given that they have been missing since December.
He also revealed that attacks on the community have not ceased, as reports indicate that assailants continue to ambush and harm residents along the coastal areas.
He added that five individuals attempting to destroy property in the village were recently apprehended by local youths and handed over to the police.
Robert attributed the ongoing conflict to Ibeno’s resistance to ceding its land as part of a proposed remapping of the state.
He explained that the issue escalated under the previous administration when oil-producing communities, including Ibeno, strongly opposed the plan.
In response to the crisis, community members have organized a search effort to locate the missing children while also seeking police intervention.
Emmanuel Opolo, Ijaw Youth Chairman in Ibeno LGA, warned that further attacks could lead to retaliation.
He disclosed that Ibeno had been targeted multiple times between February 2024 and February 2025.
Residents have urged security agencies and relevant authorities to take decisive action to ensure justice and locate the missing children.