Peace in Akwa Ibom is stable but at risk, council says

The Akwa Ibom State Conflict Prevention Council has said that peace in the state is “relatively stable but fragile.” They warned that issues like land disputes, chieftaincy fights, and youth tensions still threaten peaceful living.

The council shared this message in a communiqué released on Monday. This was to mark the 2026 International Day of Peace.

The United Nations celebrated this day on 21 September with the theme, “Invest in Peace, For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day.” This theme highlights how local actions can help prevent conflicts and build lasting peace.

The council, known as the Prevent Council, said it made this assessment after a special review on the peace situation in Akwa Ibom and the Niger Delta region.

They reminded everyone that the current peace should not be seen as a sign that there are no risks of conflict. They stressed the importance of continuous efforts in conflict prevention and early intervention.

Kufre Essien, the council’s Peacebuilding Consultant, signed the communiqué. He mentioned that they have used early warning and response methods to stop many community disputes from getting worse.

The council credited much of its peacebuilding efforts to the support from the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND). They described PIND as the “single largest and most consistent investor in community peace infrastructure in the Niger Delta.”

However, the council urged the Akwa Ibom State Government to put more money into peacebuilding and improve its partnership with the Prevent Council. They also called on private companies, traditional leaders, faith groups, and youth organizations to invest in peacebuilding as part of their responsibilities.

The council encouraged residents to settle disputes through dialogue, tolerance, and non-violence.

Their warning comes as land disputes in Akwa Ibom have gained fresh attention. PREMIUM TIMES reported that earlier this September, the state government got involved in a long-standing dispute involving the Mbak people, six host communities, Ibom Mortgage Bank, Citadel Value Homes, and other stakeholders in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area.

The Ministry of Lands and Town Planning urged everyone involved to talk things over and avoid actions that could disturb peace in the affected areas.

The Prevent Council said they will keep their commitment to conflict prevention based on neutrality, professionalism, and community service. They want peacebuilding to be seen as a long-term investment, not just something needed after violence breaks out.

Their views align with the United Nations' focus on preventing violence and building peace at the grassroots level.

On the 2026 International Day of Peace, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that peace needs intentional actions. This includes dialogue, inclusive communities, sustainable development, and trustworthy institutions.

The Prevent Council said they will continue to use their community presence and knowledge to prevent conflicts and promote peaceful living in Akwa Ibom. The communiqué was dated 21 September 2026 and was issued in Uyo.