- 2000 Natives Flee To Obudu Ranch Environs, Four Still Missing
No fewer than 2000 natives of Belegete community in the Becheve axis of Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River State are still taking refuge in the environs of the Obudu Ranch Resort, after they were forced out of their ancestral homes by militants from Cameroun.
The attack on the Belegete community was said to have been launched by the militants on December 5 last year, according to Elder Kechie John, in a petition he sent to the Head of Obanliku Local Government Area.
In the letter, a copy of which was made available to TNN, the community leader had narrated how the militants attacked them, forcing them to flee and also asked for relief from. He also said four of the natives were still missing.
It is not exactly clear why the militants have been attacking the community. But a group of prominent stakeholders from the area, the Who is Who, led by Dr Dorn Ckaimz Enamhe has hearkened to their cry, with the provision of some relief.
While addressing the refugees, Enamhe lamented what he called the intractable clashes which have rendered many indigenes homeless, noting that their visit to the victims was the second since the last attack.
During the visit, they donated items such as wrappers for the women, mosquito nets, foams and clothing. The team also visited with a medical team which carried out tests and provided treatment for the displaced persons.
Enamhe reiterated the group’s commitment to alleviate the suffering of the Belegete people. He urged other stakeholders to focus on understanding the root causes of the crisis to meaningfully engage government to mitigate the plight of the displaced persons.
He emphasized the importance of cultural identity and regional unity, echoing the communal values passed down by their forefathers. He said his group aimed to reintegrate the Belegete people into the mainstream Cross River North community and provide them with a renewed sense of belonging.”
He noted that while engaging the displaced persons during the visits on January 4 and 5, “it became evident that the challenges faced by the IDPs extended beyond the initial crisis. The harsh weather conditions and inadequate supplies are taking a toll, leading to unfortunate deaths within the community.”
Enamhe stated that the Belegete community, despite its peaceful nature, found itself thrust into the complexities of a regional border crisis, adding that the residents were caught off guard by the violent attack on their village.
“Their readiness to return to their homeland demonstrated a strong desire to reclaim their natural habitat despite the hardships faced at the Obudu Ranch Resort. The second visit of the Who is Who of Cross River North group reinforced our commitment to providing targeted assistance to the Belegete IDPs.
“The items presented, coupled with the on-going engagement with the community, aim to contribute to the healing and eventual reintegration of the Belegete people into the broader Cross River North community.”
