A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Cross River State, Austine Ibok, has criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over what he described as its failure to resolve the protracted dispute between Cross River and Akwa Ibom states over 76 oil wells.

The two states have been at odds since a 2012 ruling by the Supreme Court of Nigeria awarded ownership of the oil wells to Akwa Ibom State. The judgment has remained a source of tension, with Cross River seeking avenues for redress.

In a statement issued in Calabar, Ibok, who is the convener of the ADC Coalition Movement in Cross River, faulted the APC-led Federal Government for not pursuing what he termed a sincere political solution to the lingering dispute.

He said it was disappointing that despite both states being governed by the APC, the Federal Government had not demonstrated the neutrality and leadership required to broker an amicable resolution. According to him, the situation has prolonged economic hardship and hindered development in Cross River.

Ibok, a former APC member, commended Governor Bassey Otu for his efforts to recover what he described as critical economic assets, including the Tinapa Business Resort and the disputed oil wells.

He accused the Akwa Ibom State Government of being unfair in its handling of the matter, arguing that the continued loss of the oil wells has adversely affected communities, particularly in Bakassi.

The ADC figure called on Cross River indigenes at home and abroad to support the state government’s efforts, describing the issue as a collective struggle for economic survival rather than a partisan contest.

He added that the ADC would mobilize politically ahead of the 2027 elections, urging voters to consider alternative leadership if the dispute remains unresolved.