After years of legal disputes, the Cross River State government has resolved the Summit Hills land dispute to the Clan Head of Nkonib (Ikot Ansa) Qua Clan, HRH Ntoe Paul Assim Ita.
The handover ceremony, held on October 30, 2024, presided over by Chief Francis Ekpenyong, Commissioner for Land. This move ends the ownership battle over land historically belonging to the Nkonib (Ikot Ansa) Qua Clan, following a consent judgment reached between the state and the community.
Background and Legal Settlement of Summit Hills
In compliance with a court-mandated settlement, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ededem C. Ani, issued a letter on April 4, 2024, confirming the release of the land. The letter ref: Suit No. HC/314/2021, involving the state government, affirming the agreement to allocate 23 hectares to the community.
The settlement included survey plans CR/C/1187 (Tracing No. CRC.2881) and CR/C/1187 (Tracing No. CRC/2878). This handover reflects the government’s commitment to legal resolutions and demonstrates progress in implementing judicial decisions.
Historical Context of Summit Hills
The dispute traces back to the state’s acquisition of 369,579 hectares in 2012 for development projects such as the Calabar International Convention Centre. Even with the release of 29 hectares to the Ikot Ansa Qua Clan in 2019, unresolved tensions led to further litigation.
In 2022, Justice Ebuta ruled that 23 hectares of dry upland, distinct from the previously allocated 29 hectares of swampy land, must be released to the claimants. The judgment also required the government to provide infrastructure on the 52.846 hectares now under the community’s ownership. Furthermore, a royalty of N100 per square meter for private tenants, subject to review every ten years.
Official Handing Over of Summit Hills
Ekpenyong, for the state, issued a notice formalizing the ceding of 12.110 hectares (Plan CR/C 1187) and 9.074 hectares (Plan CR/C1187) to Qua Clan. The agreement was reached during a meeting on April 4, 2024, involving representatives of the government and the Qua Clan.
Qua Clan Leaders Embrace Peace
Following the handover, HRH Ntoe Paul Assim Ita II and Secretary Felix Eyo expressed gratitude to the state government. They affirmed the peaceful resolution of the dispute and urged the community to focus on development rather than unnecessary litigation.
“We commend the government of Sen. Bassey Otu for prioritizing the people’s welfare,” HRH Ita in his appreciation. “We call on all sons and daughters of Ikot Ansa to unite for the progress of our community.” The Summit hills resolved dispute symbolizes a significant step towards community development.
WRITTEN BY
JB