Tension has gripped the Ukam community in Akwa Ibom’s Mkpat Enin Local Government Area following violent clashes between rival groups of revenue collectors. Reports released on Tuesday revealed that the skirmishes resulted in the death of Samuel Monday Toby and left hundreds injured.
To restore peace, armed policemen have surrounded the community in search of the criminals, including Akanimo Bob, who is a Personal Assistant to Governor Umo Eno and was assigned to the LGA to maintain order after the clash between two revenue parties at Ikot Akpa Bong market.
The trouble began when the Local Government Transition Chairman, Mrs. Mercy Bassey, dissolved the former Revenue Committee in the area without consulting the host communities, claiming authority over the markets.
Eyewitnesses recounted how Toby was ambushed and killed during the market day, prompting the Transition Chairman to order the police to cordon-off all local markets to prevent further attacks. A letter titled “Save My Soul” was addressed to Governor Eno, appealing for his intervention to prevent further violence and loss of life.
The Police Public Relations Officer confirmed the incident and stated that calm has been restored with the help of tactical police operatives dispatched to the troubled area. The Village Head and some suspected hoodlums involved in the crisis have been arrested, and discreet investigations are ongoing.
