By Patrick Titus, Uyo
A 42-year-old murder suspect, Ifiok Akpan has been arrested by the police for allegedly stabbing his kindred, Ukeme Jonah to death over sharing of family funds in Akwa Ibom State.
According to police accounts, the incident occurred on November 2, 2026 at Ukana Mbak Ukot Village, Odoro Ikot clan in Essien Udim Local Government Area of the state but reported to the police on November 3.
Preliminary investigations, Police stated revealed that a misunderstanding reportedly arose between the suspect and the deceased, Ukeme Jonah, over the sharing of family funds. In the course of the disagreement, the suspect allegedly attacked the victim with a broken bottle, inflicting a deep stab wound to his abdomen.
The victim was immediately rushed to a hospital for medical attention but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. Following his death, the deceased’s corpse was reportedly taken to the compound of the Village Head.
In a subsequent development, some individuals, allegedly acting in retaliation, set the Village Head’s residence ablaze and also burnt his Toyota 4Runner vehicle. The extent of the damage and the value of the property destroyed were yet to be ascertained. Police also narrated.
“Acting swiftly on the report, Police operatives arrested the principal murder suspect, Ifiok Akpan, at his hideout.
“In a further coordinated operation, Operatives proceeded to the scene of the incident at about 11:45 a.m. on November 3, 2026, where six additional suspects were arrested in connection with the arson.
“The arrested suspects are Godwin Sunday, 42yrs; Francis Dominic, 28yr; Julius Archibong, 52yrs; Kingsley Ukeme, 23yrs; Paulinus Bede, 28yrs; and Udeme Tommy, 40yrs. All six suspects are indigenes of Ukana Mbak Ukot Village, Odoro Ikot Clan, Essien Udim Local Government Area.” Police also stated.
While the corpse of the deceased has been deposited at the mortuary for autopsy, the commissioner of police in the state, CP Baba Mohammed Azare has directed that a thorough and discreet investigation be conducted to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure that all persons found culpable are brought to justice.
The Command condemned all acts of violence, jungle justice, arson and destruction of property. It reiterated that no grievance, misunderstanding or perceived injustice justifies taking the law into one’s hands.
Members of the public are therefore urged to remain calm, refrain from acts capable of breaching public peace and report criminal activities to the nearest police station.
Police Public Relations Officer in the State, DSP Timfon John who issued a press statement assured the residents that the Command remained committed to protecting lives and property and would not hesitate to take decisive action against anyone found engaging in criminal activities.
