Residents and cocoa farmers in Etung LGA of Cross River State have alleged that they are being assaulted by soldiers from Afi Barracks in Edor community of Ikom LGA.
They pleaded that the soldiers should stop attacking them, alleging that a rich cocoa farmer was behind their predicament.
Speaking to journalists on behalf of the cocoa farmers, the youth leader in Agbokim Waterfalls in Etung LGA, Comrade Williams Akan Takon, said there have been facing intimidation from the soldiers.
He called on the Nigeria Army 13 Brigade Calabar to caution its personnel from the Afi Barracks against intimidating the indigenes of the community.
The youth leader also reacted to the presence of military personnel in the community, noting that their numbers keep increasing on a daily basis.
The youth leader claimed that the residents of the community are always intimidated at the slightest provocation.
He cited an instance where the uniformed men stormed the community at an unholy hour, claiming they are looking one of the youths, Mr Akem Aganchawa.
According to the youth leader, the soldiers broke into Aganchawa’s house in his absence.
He lamented that the peaceful relationship that existed between the members of the community and the soldiers has suddenly disappeared.
“We used to have some peaceful military men who were friendly and approachable. They were like brothers to this community, unfortunately the reverse is the case now.
“The military personnel have been entering our community since July 2024. They now come with hostility, intimidation and sometimes would be flogging the community locals, especially if they were unable to apprehend the individual that had been penciled down for arrest.”
Also speaking on alleged harassment and intimidation, a farmer, Mr Asu Njoh, said it was unfortunate that people who were supposed to protect members of the community are now assaulting them.
Cocoa tussle: Indigenes of Cross River community cry out over intimidation by soldiers