Key Points

• Gunmen abducted 20 passengers traveling between Akwa Ibom and Cross River.

• Pirate activities along Nigeria’s waterways are causing severe disruptions.

• Local leaders are calling for more security measures to address piracy.

Gunmen suspected of being pirates abducted 20 passengers traveling between Oron in Akwa Ibom State and Cross River State.

The incident, which occurred on April 18, 2025, highlights the growing danger posed by criminal activities along Nigeria’s waterways.

Details of the Abduction

The passengers were traveling by boat, which is often the preferred mode of transport due to the dilapidated state of the Calabar-Itu Federal Highway.

The boat was owned by Akwa Cross Boat Management Ltd. After the abduction, the Nigerian authorities launched an investigation, with both the Akwa Ibom and Cross River police forces collaborating to locate the victims.

Timfon John, the police spokesperson for Akwa Ibom, confirmed the abduction but clarified that the incident occurred in Cross River.

However, Cross River police spokesperson Irene Ugbo denied the incident, despite the conflicting reports.

The kidnappers are suspected to be involved in piracy, which has been a persistent issue in the region.

Pirate Activity and Safety Concerns

Pirate activities along the Oron-Calabar waterways have raised serious concerns. The region has experienced an uptick in pirate attacks, which have crippled local businesses and endangered the lives of residents.

Earlier this year, a police inspector went missing after a shootout with pirates along the same route.

Pirates have targeted local fishing operations, causing significant financial losses for fishermen.

Boat owners have also been forced to abandon their operations due to the increasing attacks.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has urged the Nigerian Army to establish a battalion in the Oron axis to combat the rising crime rates.