Map of Pibor Administrative Area - Credit: Eye Radio

Authorities in Eastern Equatoria State and the Greater Pibor Administrative Area (GPAA) have exchanged sharp accusations following a disputed visit by Pibor leaders to a border area , with both sides asserting jurisdiction over the location.

The Government of Eastern Equatoria State (EES) condemned the visit, describing it as an unlawful incursion into Kesengor Boma of Jie, Lopeit Payam, where GPAA officials reportedly claimed the area belongs to Boma County.

In a press statement issued on 8 June 2026, EES said the visit violated constitutional provisions and administrative boundaries.

The statement read: “The Government of Eastern Equatoria strongly condemns, in the strongest terms, the recent visit and illegal entry by the leadership of the Greater Pibor Administrative Area.”

It further urged GPAA authorities to “refrain from such actions and commit themselves to respecting the territorial integrity of Eastern Equatoria.”

The state government also linked the incident to insecurity in the region, alleging that individuals from GPAA were responsible for the killing of a health official, Mr. Mark Nabeyo, who was attacked along the Torit–Lomonyo road on 3 June while on duty. The statement extended condolences to the family of the deceased.

The Greater Pibor Administrative Area rejected the allegations and defended the visit, insisting the area remains under its jurisdiction.

GPAA said in its response that “Kizingor (Kater) is indisputably and legally part of the Greater Pibor Administrative Area” and argued that its leadership had every right to engage with communities within its administrative boundaries.

The statement added that “the Chief Administrator and national representatives have the fundamental right and obligation to visit any constituencies within GPAA without needing consent from outsiders.”

GPAA further described the Eastern Equatoria statement as unfounded and a violation of its internal administrative affairs, arguing that historical boundary demarcations place the area within the former Pibor District.

On the allegations linking GPAA to the killing of the health worker, the administration dismissed any connection, calling for responsible reporting and stating that there was “no apparent link to GPAA” in the incident.

Both administrations have called for calm while maintaining opposing claims over the disputed border area, underscoring ongoing tensions between Eastern Equatoria State and GPAA over administrative boundaries and security concerns.