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By Chinyere Anyanwu
Nde village in Ikom Local Government Area, Cross River State, has been deserted as a result of reported killing of 10 persons and a baby.
The community leaders attributed the killings to the activities of suspected bandits and herdsmen in the community.
In the last two months, the community has experienced five attacks by suspected armed bandits, and over 30 victims taken hostage.
An indigene, Prince Etaba, who spoke with journalists, said the attacks remained a shock. According to him, Nde people have never imagined that they would ever live in fear in their own home.
“We can’t sleep at night for fear of another strike by these strange, violent men. The whole village has moved to our ancestral home in Old Nde where we migrated from to hide for fear of being taken hostage or even killed,” he said.
Another indigene, Desmond Abobo alleged that the attackers were Fulani herdsmen. According to him, “they once made an attempt to settle in our community but we refused and chased them away. When you see them, you’ll know that they are Fulanis. Their accent when they speak indicates so.
“This matter is very serious and we are calling on the government to live up to its responsibility of protecting its citizens.”
Meanwhile, the Police Commissioner, Grimah Gyogon, said they have strategised with other security agencies to contain kidnappings and such attacks in Ikom LGA.
