From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
Cocoa farmers in Etung, Cross River State, have accused Oscar Ofuka, a former aide to ex-Governor Ben Ayade, of using thugs and armed officers to harass, torture and arrest them. The farmers claim that these actions have pushed them to the brink of chaos.
“He’s acting with impunity, arresting, assaulting and threatening farmers, who have legally acquired plots,” said Pastor Ubi Ofem.
The farmers are demanding that Governor Bassey Otu and security agencies investigate and prosecute Ofuka.
Martins Isaac, another affected farmer, said: “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 that if the government doesn’t act, the situation could spiral out of control,” he said.
In response, Dr. Oscar Ofuka denied the allegations, calling them “lies from the pit of hell” aimed at tarnishing his reputation.
“I have no boys going to the plantation to brutalize people. Anyone who has been brutalized has the right to lodge a formal complaint with the Police for investigations.”
Dr. Ofuka also stated that he is currently recuperating at home and advised against promoting fake information aimed at aggravating the crisis. He called on mischief makers to allow the Governor Otu administration to focus on developing the state.