A group of drug-influenced cultists today opened fire and killed one Sampson Udo at the funeral of his late father in Ekori, a town in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State.
Udo’s father was the community head and the development has led to wild reactions in the community.
The killing reportedly took place at the venue of the funeral, and has been described by community sources as tragic and senseless.
A traditional ruler in Ugep who is a former presidential aide, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla who confirmed the killing to our reporter, said, “There is serious tension in the community.”
Obono-Obla stated that if nothing is done urgently, the situation may spiral into a bloody conflict as rival gangs are spoiling for a big fight.
“Ugep and few other towns in Yakurr LGA have witnessed drug related violence in the last three months, leading to cross fire violence that left some persons dead.” the royal father also said.
The traditional ruler called on all stakeholders, community leaders, security agencies, and peace advocates, to act now before it is too late.
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Reacting to the incident, former special assistant to ex-Vice President Prof Yemi Osibanjo, Philip Obin, said, “The killing is deeply saddening. Yakurr LGA has always been known for its strong communal spirit, and it’s painful to see it drifting this way.
“The loss of young Sampson is not just a family tragedy but a wake-up call to all of us. Our people deserve peace and purposeful leadership, not fear and division, Obin further said.
He called on security agencies, traditional institutions, and government at all levels to step in swiftly stating that the time to rebuild Yakurr’s unity and moral strength is now.
Chairman of the local government area, Yibala Igiri Inyang and the State Police Command could not be reached when our reporter called.
