Lou-Nuer leaders urged to curb escalating violence in Akobo

BOR – A lawmaker in South Sudan’s Jonglei State Legislative Assembly on Sunday urged Lou-Nuer leaders to take immediate action to contain a fresh wave of violence in Akobo County, warning that renewed clashes are threatening the already fragile security situation.

Wany Bum Makhor, who represents Uror County in the Jonglei State Legislative Assembly, warned that continued inaction by key leaders’ risks deepening the humanitarian crisis in the Lou-Nuer region.

“Their continued inaction in the face of escalating tensions raises serious questions about commitment, responsibility, and political relevance,” Bum told Sudans Post on Sunday.

Bum attributed the escalating violence between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army-In Opposition to what he described as a “clear failure of political leadership” among Lou-Nuer leaders.

He emphasized the need to reconcile communities and facilitate the safe return of displaced populations to their homes, while urging humanitarian agencies and the state government to provide the necessary support to make resettlement efforts successful.

He called on Lou-Nuer leaders, including Solomon Pur Got Dak and Denay Jock Chagor, the Minister of Wildlife, to actively engage their communities in addressing the insecurity in the area

The lawmaker warned that ongoing insecurity has forced communities out of their homes, leaving them unable to return, farm their land, or rebuild their livelihoods, thereby deepening the suffering of civilians in conflict-affected areas.

“Silence and inaction at this time amount to complicity. I am urging all Lou-Nuer national leaders, members of parliament, state officials, and community elders to take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation.”

He called on leaders to publicly condemn the violence, directly engage commanders from both SSPDF and SPLA-IO to halt hostilities, and spearhead reconciliation and resettlement efforts.

While acknowledging the role of the state government, Bum stressed that Governor Riek Gai Kok requires stronger political backing from national leaders to effectively address the crisis in Akobo and surrounding Lou-Nuer areas.

The statement comes amid heightened tensions in parts of Jonglei State, where recurring clashes have contributed to cycles of displacement and instability, complicating humanitarian access and recovery efforts.