Monarch expresses concern over rising militancy and unlawful taxation in Calabar creeks

The Clan Head of Efut Akani Esuk, Muri Eyo Effiong Okon V, has warned that a new wave of militancy and extortion is affecting several riverine communities in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State.

Okon said armed groups have seized control of parts of the creeks, demanding illegal taxes from fishermen and other residents and disrupting local marine activities.

Speaking from his palace on Wednesday, the traditional ruler explained that the militants’ actions have forced many people to abandon their homes and livelihoods out of fear of attacks and intimidation.

He described how the groups routinely extort fishermen, seize portions of their catches and compel them to pay levies before they can conduct their daily work on the waterways.

“I receive reports almost daily about the activities of these militants. They extort fishermen, impose illegal taxes and terrorise innocent residents who depend on fishing and other lawful businesses for survival,” the monarch said.

Okon noted that while the settlement of Ine Nkanwaba has been largely devastated and deserted because of militant activity, other communities—Afa Okon Inyang, Afa Iba, Afa Ita, Ine Isong and Ine Ikot Itukmbang—remain under the influence of the armed groups.

The monarch attributed the situation to the difficult terrain of the creeks, which he said hampers security forces’ access. He added that the militants use the shallow waterways and their local knowledge to evade arrest.

Okon recalled previous security interventions in the area but said they did not permanently end the groups’ activities. He has reported the matter to state security authorities.

Chief Okon Nyong Okon, an 85‑year‑old fisherman, confirmed the monarch’s statements. He said he fled his settlement to the mainland after years of harassment and threats from the militants.

“They come in speedboats, demand taxes and sometimes take away our catches. I can no longer endure the threats. I have lost my canoe and fishing nets and now stay on the mainland for safety,” he said.

Chief Okon appealed to the Cross River State government for assistance and for measures to restore security in the affected creeks.

Attempts to obtain comments from the security adviser (south) to Governor Bassey Otu on the allegations were unsuccessful at the time of this report.