According to SP Odiko Macdon, the Police Public Relations Officer for Akwa Ibom State, the arrests were carried out between January 31st and February 2nd, 2024. Among the apprehended suspects is Emem Ime Friday, alleged to be a serial murderer and the mastermind behind the Inen Clan Cult War.
In a statement, Odiko highlighted the commitment of the police force to intensify efforts against criminal elements in the state. He also assured the public that those responsible for heinous crimes would be brought to justice.
Emem Ime Friday, also known as Barracks, was arrested by the Anti-Cultism Unit of the Command based on credible intelligence. Emem Ime Friday is accused of orchestrating the brutal murder of Hezekiah Adaidem, the Youth President of Inen Clan, in 2022. The suspect reportedly beheaded Adaidem, severed his manhood, and fled to Rivers State. Emem Ime Friday is also alleged to have committed multiple murders in 2020, including the killings of Ufot Unwana, Udeme Unwucha, Okon Ubok Udom, Ntiedo Sambo, Eferemfon James, and Gilbert Akpan.
Another arrest involved Emmanuel Francis Daniel, a 33-year-old resident of Otomo village in Ika LGA. He was apprehended by operatives of Ika Division for the murder of Emmanuel Jimmy Udoh, a 58-year-old pastor of Jesus Power Ministry in Ikot Esu village. The pastor was shot to death in the church, and efforts are underway to capture other suspects who are currently at large.
Additionally, on January 23, 2023, Happiness Isaiah Ekanem and three others from Ikono L.G.A. were arrested for conspiring to kill Imo Isaiah Ekanem. Imo Isaiah Ekanem, aged 32, was beaten to death, and the suspects secretly buried his corpse. Investigations into this incident are ongoing.
The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State reaffirmed the force’s dedication to ensuring peace and safety for all residents of the state. The police are actively pursuing the remaining suspects to bring them to justice.