Cross River Government Denies Reported Abduction on Oron-Calabar Waterway
The Cross River State Government has issued a firm denial regarding reports alleging that more than 15 passengers were abducted by gunmen along the Oron-Calabar waterway. In an official statement, the government described these claims as false and misleading, emphasizing that the incident did not occur on the designated and regulated marine corridor.
Official Rebuttal from Marine Services Office
The rebuttal was issued by the Office of the Special Adviser on Marine Services, Capt. Otu Ita Otu, and signed by Effiwatt Ededem of the Department of Marine Services. According to the statement, preliminary findings indicate that the boat in question departed from Calabar en route to Oron but failed to ply the approved government-sanctioned route. Instead, the boat operator allegedly diverted through an unapproved shortcut, which is not recognized as part of the official waterway and falls outside the state's monitored marine network.
Routine Patrol and Security Measures
The government further disclosed that on April 17, 2026, the day the alleged incident was reported to have occurred, the Special Adviser on Marine Services, alongside the State Security Adviser, conducted a routine patrol on the official Calabar-Oron waterway. No security breach was recorded during this patrol. The statement highlighted that all boats operating along the approved route are required to pass through between three and five marine security checkpoints, strategically positioned to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
Safety Protocols and Warnings
Reiterating existing safety protocols, the government reminded operators and commuters of the standing restriction on sea travel, which prohibits boat movement beyond 6:00 p.m. daily along the waterway. It warned that violation of the stipulated operating hours and the use of unauthorized routes expose passengers to avoidable risks and undermine ongoing efforts to secure the state's waterways.
- Strict compliance with approved navigation routes is mandatory.
- Patronizing unregulated transport services is discouraged.
- Such actions could compromise the state's maritime security framework.
Commitment to Maritime Security
While reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the government stated it would continue to collaborate with relevant security agencies to maintain order and safety across marine transport corridors. The statement concluded by assuring the public that the Calabar-Oron waterway remains secure for lawful operations under the supervision of the Cross River State Government.
