By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio (MMI), a socio-cultural organisation representing the Ibibio ethnic nationality, has rejected any proposal that would involve ceding Ibibio territory for the creation of a proposed Obollo State.
In a communiqué issued after its 39th Founders’ Day celebration in Uyo, and signed by its International President, Ini-Abasi Ekanem, and International Secretary-General, John Offiong, the organisation also condemned the circulation of what it described as unofficial maps allegedly depicting parts of the Ibibio coastline as belonging to the Oron Federal Constituency.
MMI stated that while agitation for the creation of new states is a constitutional right, any such exercise must comply with the provisions of the Constitution and be based on legally recognised territorial boundaries.
The group maintained that the Akwa Ibom State Map Establishment Law, 2023 remains the legal framework defining the state’s territorial boundaries and argued that it does not transfer any Ibibio land to the Oron Federal Constituency. The organisation further said issues relating to the proposed Ibaka Deep Seaport, including territorial jurisdiction, host communities and benefit-sharing, should be resolved through legal processes, technical evidence and environmental assessments.
MMI also expressed concerns over what it described as attempts to redefine the identity of some Ibibio sub-groups, maintaining that they remain part of the broader Ibibio ethnic nationality. The organisation’s position follows ongoing public discussions surrounding proposals for the creation of an Obollo State.
