By Manas James Okony
Residents have abandoned Jonglei State’s Pigi County and sought refuge in areas around Malakal, the capital of the neighboring Upper Nile State, amidst an alarming escalation of violence.
The mass exodus is rooted in long-standing tensions and conflicts that have plagued the region, exacerbated by recent military confrontations.
Since the start of this year, the Upper Nile Region has existed in a fragile state characterized by intermittent clashes involving the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the White Army, a hostile military group operating in the region.
Jonglei and Upper Nile states have frequently been hotspots for violence, largely fueled by disputes among various tribal groups and armed factions.
Suleiman Deng, the Pigi County commissioner, spoke to No. 1 Citizen Daily Newspaper, detailing the ongoing crisis.
He reported that local populations are currently seeking refuge in villages north of Malakal.
“Our civilians have fled to Obeel, Dolep Hill, and Panam around Malakal town,” he stated, indicating a significant displacement of residents.
The escalation of hostilities has reached a critical point, with SPLA-IO forces and the White Army reportedly seizing control of substantial areas within Pigi County, thereby deepening an already dire humanitarian situation.
Commissioner Deng expressed grave concerns about the security of the remaining residents, noting that “the enemy is already in the county and they are camped in areas such as Dwong (Wunmaker) and Wunlith.”
He warned that an attack on the county headquarters appears imminent.
“The enemy came in large numbers, and the SSPDF forces stationed in Wunlith (Kaldak) have withdrawn, forcing residents to flee without carrying food or clothes,” he lamented.
In addition to the commissioner’s remarks, Monyngok Abiel, the Pigi County Relief and Rehabilitation Commission (RRC) coordinator, highlighted the deteriorating conditions facing the displaced population.
He stated, “Fighting over the past three days in Wunlith and Canal of the county have forced residents to flee to Obeel and Panam. A population of 14,000 is in a dire situation in their displaced camps.”
The RRC coordinator has urgently appealed for humanitarian intervention, emphasizing the necessity of immediate support to rescue those affected by the violence.