Setting the Record Straight: Indigenous Displaced People of Bakassi Communities Clarify Stance

 The Indigenous Displaced People of Bakassi Communities have denied calling for the delisting of Bakassi Local Government Area from Cross River State. Instead, they demanded coastal reclamation to restore their dignity and identity. The group seeks proper resettlement, as promised by the Federal Government 17 years ago. They've written to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing the need for fulfillment of obligations to the displaced people. The communities feel marginalized and neglected, seeking fair treatment and justice.


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In a recent interview, Chief Iyadim Amboni Iyadim, leader of the Indigenous Displaced People of Bakassi Communities and former Chairman of Bakassi Local Government Council, set out to correct a gross misconception that has been making the rounds in the media. Contrary to reports, the group never advocated for the delisting of Bakassi Local Government Area from Cross River State.


Chief Iyadim was adamant that those behind the false reports were "doing the bidding of their slave masters." He challenged anyone to produce a document, signed by him or the group, calling for the delisting of Bakassi from the 774 councils in Nigeria. The group's actual demand, he explained, was for the "coastal reclamation of Dayspring 1, 2, and Qua Island," which remains the unceded part of the old peninsula. This, they believe, would restore their dignity and provide them with a political and traditional identity


The Indigenous Displaced People of Bakassi Communities have been seeking proper resettlement, as promised by the Federal Government 17 years ago. To this end, they have written a "Save A Soul" letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing the need for the government to fulfill its obligations to the displaced people of Bakassi.


Chief Iyadim emphasized that their group is not antagonizing the administration of Hon. Effiong Okon, Chairman of Bakassi Local Government, or that of Governor Apostle Prince Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State. Rather, they are deploying constitutionally recognized approaches to drive home their demands.


The Indigenous Displaced People of Bakassi Communities feel they have not been treated fairly. Their land was ceded to the Republic of Cameroon without their consent, and despite the establishment of several Technical and Implementation Committees, their peculiar problems remain unaddressed.


Chief Iyadim noted that resettling the displaced people of Bakassi is a burden too great for the state to bear alone. As registered members of the ruling APC, who worked tirelessly to elect the current administration, they cannot destroy what they have invested time, energy, and resources to build.

In conclusion, the Indigenous Displaced People of Bakassi Communities are seeking justice, fairness, and proper resettlement. They urge the government to fulfill its promises and address their grievances, rather than perpetuating misinformation and misconceptions.

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