The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of the village head of Ibagwa community in Abak Local Government Area for allegedly shooting his younger sister during a family altercation. The shocking incident has stirred tension in the area, drawing widespread condemnation from residents who described the act as both tragic and unacceptable.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Uyo, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, said police operatives received a distress report of an attempted murder on September 6 at about 2:30 p.m. The report, according to her, was lodged by a family member who alleged that the suspect, serving as the traditional ruler of Ibagwa, shot their 32-year-old sister in the head with a firearm.
DSP John explained that officers swiftly swung into action following the report, leading to the arrest of the suspect. The victim was immediately rushed to a nearby medical facility where she is currently receiving treatment. Medical personnel have since confirmed that she survived the gunshot wound but remains in critical condition under close observation.
“The Police Command condemns in strong terms the act of violence perpetrated by the suspect. Investigations have commenced to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and to ensure justice is served,” John said. She added that the weapon used in the attack had been recovered as evidence.
Sources within the community revealed that the altercation may have stemmed from a long-standing family dispute, though police have not officially confirmed the motive. Residents expressed shock that a traditional leader, regarded as a custodian of peace, could be linked to such an act of violence against a family member.
The Command has assured members of the public that the suspect will be charged to court upon completion of investigations. It also urged citizens to avoid taking laws into their own hands and to always seek peaceful resolution of conflicts, stressing that violence undermines both family unity and community stability.
Meanwhile, security operatives have been deployed to the village to prevent any possible breakdown of law and order, as community members await further updates on the victim’s condition and the legal proceedings against their embattled leader.
