Ibibio Union Defends Leader Against Oro Attacks

The Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio, the umbrella union for the Ibibio-speaking people of Akwa Ibom State, condemned attacks on Dr. Samuel Udonsak, President of the Ekid People’s Union. The criticism arose after Udonsak revealed the Oro people's strategies to establish Oro-Obolo state from Akwa Ibom.

During the inauguration of the 12th International President and Executive Council of Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio International in Uyo on July 24, 2026, Udonsak stated that Oro Nation does not have any direct border with the Atlantic shoreline and that no official map or court ruling supports Oro's claims to littoral status. He argued that the Oro-Obolo movement aims to annex parts of Southern Ibibio ancestral lands, threatening the economic stability of the Ibibio and Annang people.

In response, Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio supported Udonsak, asserting that his statements were factual and highlighted the potential economic consequences for Akwa Ibom if Oro's plans succeed.