From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
Cocoa farmers in Etung, Cross River State, have accused Dr Oscar Ofuka, a former aide to ex-Governor Ben Ayade, of orchestrating violence against them through thugs and armed officers.
The farmers allege that Ofuka’s actions, including harassment, torture, and arrests, threaten chaos at the government cocoa estate.
Pastor Ubi Ofem stated, “He’s acting with impunity—arresting, assaulting, and threatening farmers who have legally acquired plots.” Martin Isaac added: “This is no longer just about cocoa—it’s about justice, dignity, and the right to farm in peace. We are losing our farms, our yields, and our peace of mind.” Obi Amba warned, “If the government doesn’t act, the situation could spiral out of control.”
The farmers have urged Governor Bassey Otu and security agencies to investigate and prosecute Ofuka for the alleged attacks.
Ofuka denied the allegations, calling them “lies from the pit of hell” aimed at tarnishing his reputation. He stated, “I have no boys going to the plantation to brutalise people. Anyone who has been brutalised has the right to lodge a formal complaint with the police for investigations.”
Recuperating at home, Ofuka urged against spreading misinformation that could escalate the crisis and called for support for Otu’s development agenda.