The high-level visit on Tuesday comes weeks after clashes between the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF) and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition (SPLA-IO) triggered a mass displacement crisis in the area.
Humanitarian agencies estimate that nearly 200,000 people fled across the border into Ethiopia, while thousands more scattered to neighbouring counties and other parts of Jonglei and beyond.
Governor Gai, accompanied by senior state officials, including Ambassador Majok Guandong and several ministers, toured parts of the town that remain largely empty after the exodus of civilians. The visit appeared aimed at projecting government control and reassuring displaced communities that conditions are improving.
Speaking to reporters during the visit, Gai praised SSPDF forces for recapturing the area, describing their operations as critical to restoring order after weeks of violence.
“I would like to thank the SSPDF commanders and all our forces on the ground. You have made the nation proud through your dedication and courage,” he said. “Your efforts to restore peace and liberate Akobo County demonstrate your commitment to safeguarding our people.”
The governor also called on civilians who fled the violence to return, insisting that security has improved and that the government is working to stabilise the situation.
“To all our people who left due to insecurity, I urge you to return peacefully. Your safety is our priority, and we are working to ensure stability is fully restored,” he added.
However, the call for returns comes amid lingering concerns over security in Akobo. Earlier appeals by the SSPDF Spokesman, Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai Koang, urging civilians and humanitarian agencies to resume operations, has yielded little response, with aid groups and residents citing continued volatility and uncertainty on the ground.
In a statement issued last week, Pal Mai Deng, the Spokesperson of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement in Opposition (SPLM-IO), said, “Maj. Gen. Lul Ruai’s call on humanitarian agencies to return to Akobo… is more of a psychological engagement than a sincere call,” Pal said, adding that “at the moment Akobo is a battleground and war zone.”
However, during the gubernatorial visit, an SSPDF field commander, Maj. Jiel Mangok reiterated that government forces are in control of the county and are committed to protecting civilians and property. “Our mission is to protect civilians, their homes, and their property. We assure the public that security will be maintained,” he said.
Despite these assurances, the situation in Akobo remains fragile. Humanitarian reports indicate that many displaced families are reluctant to return without clear guarantees of safety, access to basic services, and sustained peace.
International medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported this week that its hospital in Akobo town has been completely looted and left non-functional following a government-led offensive and evacuation order issued on 6 March.
While Governor Gai’s visit underscores a government push to reassert authority in conflict-affected areas and promote returns, the risks of going back may still outweigh the promises of stability, but for many displaced residents
