Tensions have surged in Adagom community in Ogoja Local Government of Cross River State following Nigeria’s loss to Ivory Coast in the finals of the AFCON 2023 match, sparking serious conflict between the local community and the Cameroonian refugees they host.

According to a witness, what began as a gathering of both locals and the refugees to watch the match at the refugee settlement on Ogoja Katsina Katsina-Ala highway swiftly devolved into violence, leaving numerous individuals injured.

He said the altercation, which originated from a minor disagreement between a Nigerian youth and a Cameroonian refugee, quickly escalated into a larger conflict, exposing the underlying tensions between the groups.

In the aftermath of the incident, schools in Adagom have remained closed, and local youths have expressed feelings of anger and perceived threat towards the refugees they had previously welcomed.

As of the time of this report, efforts by the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to mediate the situation faced obstacles as they were denied entry to meet with local chiefs, further complicating the resolution process.

This regrettable turn of events underscores the profound impact of a football match on local dynamics and the latent tensions within the community.

It serves as a stark reminder of the precariousness of relationships and the potential for misunderstandings to escalate into serious conflicts.

The situation in Adagom presents a troubling example of the influence of sports events on local dynamics and emphasizes the necessity of effective conflict resolution strategies.

It highlights the urgency of addressing underlying issues and restoring calm to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.

This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by communities hosting refugees, emphasising the imperative of proactive measures to prevent similar conflicts in the future.