The Cross River State Consultative Forum (CRSCF) has challenged a claim attributed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio that 40 per cent of Cross River State’s population are people of Akwa Ibom origin.
The forum said no official census, demographic survey or peer-reviewed study supports the figure.
It made the assertion in a response to remarks attributed to Akpabio at the 39th anniversary celebration of Akwa Ibom State.
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According to the CRSCF, Cross River’s population is estimated at between 4.1 million and 4.4 million, based on projections from the 2006 census and subsequent estimates.
It said the state comprises several ethnic groups, including Efik, Ejagham, Yakurr, Bahumono, Bette, Yala, Bekwarra and Ukelle, among others.
The forum acknowledged longstanding historical ties, migration, intermarriage and shared cultural practices between communities in Cross River and Akwa Ibom, particularly in coastal and riverine areas.
It, however, maintained that such ties did not provide evidence for the 40 per cent demographic claim.
“Ethnicity and state of origin are not interchangeable in this manner,” the forum said.
It warned that unsubstantiated demographic assertions could undermine relations between neighbouring communities and urged that population claims be based on verifiable data.
The CRSCF said Cross River and Akwa Ibom shared history and culture and should continue to pursue cooperation based on “facts rather than rhetoric.”
The statement was signed by the Chairman and Secretary of the forum, Hon Eyo Nsa Ekpo and Dr Julius Ochim Okputu, respectively.
