The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has expressed concern over escalating insecurity in Cross River State, citing increasing incidents of sea piracy, violent crimes, banditry, kidnapping, and widespread vandalism of critical infrastructure.
In a report detailing its activities from January to December 2025, the State Command highlighted a surge in attacks on national assets by criminal syndicates operating across the state.
The Command, led by Commandant Okarazu Eke, acknowledged intensified security efforts but noted that significant challenges remain. The report pointed to continued militancy in Bakassi and described the state’s maritime corridor as volatile, referencing the October 2025 abduction of four passengers travelling from Ikang Beach to Cameroon as one of several incidents recorded.
On violent crimes, the NSCDC attributed several cases to communal clashes, particularly in Obubra and Ikom, where conflicts reportedly led to fatalities and economic disruption.
The Corps also raised alarm over repeated attacks on energy, telecommunications, and industrial infrastructure. It cited the vandalism of base transceiver stations in Akpabuyo and Calabar, including along Atu Street and Murtala Mohammed Highway, where criminals allegedly carted away lithium batteries, cables, generator modules, and other equipment.
Additional incidents included the destruction of solar installations belonging to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Abasi Obori, Calabar; vandalism of solar streetlights in Akim Akim, Odukpani; and repeated attacks on the Calachika automated poultry and meat processing factory, resulting in the theft of industrial machinery.
The Command further identified farmer-herder clashes, land disputes, illegal mining, and resource-driven criminality as contributing factors to instability. Notable conflicts were reported in Yala between the Oba and Ifega Okpame communities, as well as in Obubra and Ikom between the Ochon and Alesi communities.
The NSCDC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and protecting critical national infrastructure while calling for stronger collaboration with communities and other security agencies to address the growing threats.
