The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has taken seven suspects into custody following the murder of a 42-year-old man and a series of arson incidents in the Essien Udim Local Government Area. The incident unfolded in Ukana Mbak Ukot village on November 2, 2026, after a disagreement over the distribution of family funds.
The victim, identified as Ukeme Jonah, reportedly suffered fatal injuries during a confrontation with Ifiok Akpan, who allegedly attacked him with a broken bottle. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Jonah succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
In the aftermath of his death, a reprisal attack led to the burning of the village head’s residence and vehicle. The police responded to the situation on November 3, following a distress call, and quickly apprehended Akpan at a hideout. During a coordinated operation, six additional suspects were arrested at the scene.
The suspects are Godwin Sunday (42), Francis Dominic (28), Julius Archibong (52), Kingsley Ukeme (23), Paulinus Bede (28), and Udeme Tommy (40), all of whom are residents of Ukana Mbak Ukot.
The police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that the victim’s body has been sent to a mortuary for an autopsy. The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, has ordered a thorough investigation into the events, emphasizing the importance of bringing those responsible to justice.
Authorities have condemned the violence and called for community members to refrain from acts that could disrupt public peace, urging them to report any criminal activities to local law enforcement.
