Sh*ck In Akwa Ibom: Village Head Suspended Over Alleged Terrorism Links

The Akwa Ibom State Government, under Governor Umo Eno, has suspended the Village Head of Ikot Umo Essien, Chief Monday Esu, over alleged acts of terrorism and breaches of public peace.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The announcement was made on Wednesday in Uyo through a statement by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Frank Archibong.

According to the commissioner, the six-month suspension will enable a full investigation into the serious allegations levelled against the embattled traditional ruler.

Archibong explained that Chief Esu’s suspension followed credible reports linking him to activities that could destabilize the area, including alleged sponsorship of vandalism and theft at a newly constructed block of shops in the Ikot Ekpenyong community market.

“The allegations against the village head involve acts that threaten peace and security, such as the alleged sponsorship of vandalism and theft at newly built shops in the Ikot Ekpenyong market,” Archibong stated.

He stressed that the state government would not tolerate any conduct capable of disrupting law and order in rural communities.

The statement recalled that hoodlums, reportedly from Ikot Umo Essien, had recently attacked the Ikot Ekpenyong market, where they allegedly destroyed, vandalized, and looted newly built shops.

“The affected shops were part of a constituency project facilitated in February 2024 by the immediate past member representing Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, Mr. Nsikak Ekong,” the commissioner noted.

Archibong further revealed that the assailants also destroyed a Fadama-sponsored borehole and a VIP lavatory within the market premises, carting away items such as aluminum roofing sheets, doors, windows, water tanks, generators, and pumps.

“They went on to unleash mayhem and instill fear among residents of the area,” he added.

Preliminary investigations, according to Archibong, identified Chief Esu as the prime suspect behind the attacks.

“Early findings point to the Village Head of Ikot Umo Essien, Chief Monday Esu, as the principal suspect in the incident,” he stated.

Consequently, the suspended traditional ruler has been directed to hand over all government property in his possession to the village council secretary pending the conclusion of the probe.

The commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across all communities, warning that any traditional leader found aiding or abetting criminal activities would face disciplinary action.

“The Ministry will continue to uphold discipline and ensure that traditional institutions remain symbols of peace, unity, and development,” Archibong emphasized.