The Nigerian Army has urged residents of Essien Udim communities, who fled their homes due to crisis, to return.

The commander, 2 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier-General Mohammed Inuwa, who made the call at the opening of a free medical outreach, on Tuesday in Essien Udim, said that adequate security had been restored after the crisis that engulfed the communities in March.

He said that the free medical exercise was in commemoration of the 2021 edition of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration.

He said that the exercise was aimed at supporting the health needs of the people, stressing “we are happy that the people have confidence in the army.”

“They are just coming out of a security challenge. This exercise will support them hugely and we are happy with the turnout.

In his address at the occasion, the chairman of the Essien Udim Local Government Council, Anthony Luke, commended the army for the gesture.

Mr Luke, represented by a former Chairman of the council, John Ekanem, described the crisis that engulfed the area as an unnecessary distraction.

“We appreciate the army for this gesture. The community is happy that they have been remembered.

“We thank you for the assurance of security. Our people can now sleep with their two eyes closed,” he said.

One of the residents, Patricia Inyang, described the exercise as a demonstration of kindness to the community by the army.

Another resident, Anthony Okon, commended the army for the exercise, urging fellow residents to believe in the assurance that security had returned to their community.