Jonglei State Governor Riek Gai Kok has accused opposition forces of mobilising armed youth in northern Jonglei, warning of possible renewed clashes.

Speaking after an extraordinary security meeting in the state capital Bor on Tuesday, Governor Kok said the meeting reviewed the volatile security situation in Uror and Nyirol counties.

He accused the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-in-Opposition (SPLM-IO) of attempting to mobilise the Lou Nuer White Army and incite intercommunal violence in areas that had recently seen relative calm due to local peace initiatives.

“We are witnessing attempts to mobilise youth who had been part of peace arrangements,” Kok said.

He described such actions as “unacceptable” and a threat to recent reconciliation gains.

The governor said there were reports of armed youth movements towards Motot in Uror County, which he termed “unprovoked aggression.”

He warned that government forces were on high alert and would respond in self-defence if attacked.

Kok also condemned any threats against communities in Greater Pibor and warned against a resurgence of cattle raiding and child abduction.

He called on the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and humanitarian agencies, including the World Food Programme (WFP), to continue operations and verify conditions on the ground.

The governor, a senior member of the ruling SPLM, criticised recent statements attributed to opposition spokesperson Pal Mai Deng, saying they were undermining humanitarian access.

Officials from the SPLM-IO, currently led in an acting capacity by Oyet Nathaniel following the detention of Dr. Riek Machar, could not be reached for comment.

Tensions between government and opposition forces have risen in parts of northern Jonglei in recent months, with several violent clashes reported.