Etomi community in Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State has protested the planned sale of its cocoa estate. The peaceful protest happened on Wednesday.
Hundreds of farmers joined the march. They held placards with bold messages. Some signs read, “Our cocoa estate is not for sale” and “No to privatisation.”
Community leader Mbek Agbor-Tangban spoke during the event. He said their ancestors donated the land many years ago. The donation came with a clear agreement.
Mr. Agbor-Tangban said the community became concerned after a newspaper advert appeared. The notice was published on June 25, 2025. It invited bidders to take over the estate.
Women’s leader Ntunkai Mary-Ndum also shared her concerns. She said the land supports their families. If the government no longer wants to manage the estate, it should return the land to the people.
Youth leader Abang Shikina-Oji spoke about the history. He said the land was given to the government in 1957. The goal was to support local farmers.
The Commissioner for Agriculture, Johnson Ebokpo, and the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, addressed the crowd. They promised that the government will review the issue carefully.
They said Governor Bassey Otu cares about the people. They also urged the community to stay calm during the review process.
