NSCDC RAISES ALARM OVER RISING INSECURITY IN CROSS RIVER
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has expressed concern over escalating insecurity in Cross River State, citing increased incidents of sea piracy, kidnapping, violent crimes, banditry, and widespread vandalism of critical infrastructure.
In a report detailing its activities from January to December 2025, the State Command, led by Okarazu Eke, highlighted a growing wave of attacks by criminal syndicates targeting national assets across the state.
The Command noted persistent militancy in Bakassi and described the maritime corridor as volatile. It referenced the October 2025 abduction of four passengers travelling from Ikang Beach to Cameroon as part of a pattern of sea piracy incidents recorded during the year.
The report attributed many violent crimes to communal clashes, particularly in Obubra and Ikom, where conflicts led to fatalities and disrupted economic activities.
Notable disputes were recorded in Yala between Oba and Ifega Okpame communities, as well as in Obubra and Ikom between Ochon and Alesi communities. These clashes intensified during the farming season and required multi-agency intervention.
The Corps decried repeated attacks on energy, telecommunications and industrial facilities, including vandalism of base transceiver stations in Akpabuyo and Calabar.
It also cited the destruction of solar installations belonging to the Niger Delta Development Commission in Abasi Obori, Calabar, and solar street lights in Akim Akim, Odukpani.
Repeated attacks were also reported at the Calachika automated poultry and meat processing factory, where industrial equipment was allegedly stolen. Criminal elements reportedly carted away lithium batteries, cables, generator modules and other high-value items.
The Command flagged illegal gold mining in the Agoi Ibami forest in Yakurr as a growing threat, allegedly involving unauthorised local and foreign actors. The activities, it said, have contributed to environmental degradation, criminal financing and rising community tensions.
The report also raised concerns over human trafficking and gender-based violence, particularly between January and March 2025, with perpetrators increasingly exploiting social media to lure victims.
Additionally, the proliferation of drug hubs across parts of the state was identified as a key driver of criminality.
To strengthen its operations, the NSCDC called for improved logistics support, including operational vehicles and arms, to enhance the deployment of Agro Rangers units along key transit corridors and address cattle rustling.
The Command also advocated the establishment of a digital forensic laboratory with advanced cyber intelligence capabilities to tackle technology-driven crimes and track online predators in real time.
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