The Akwa Ibom State Government has suspended Chief Monday Esu, the Village Head of Ikot Umo Essien in Essien Udim Local Government Area, over alleged involvement in acts of terrorism.
The announcement was made Wednesday by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Frank Archibong, in Uyo. He explained that the six-month suspension will allow for a full-scale investigation into the allegations against Esu.
The commissioner said the allegations include sponsoring vandalism and theft at newly constructed blocks of shops in the Ikot Ekpenyong community market.
Hoodlums reportedly from Ikot Umo Essien had stormed the market, destroying and looting the shops, which were a constituency project facilitated by former Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency representative Mr Nsikak Ekong in February 2024.
The attackers also damaged a Fadama-sponsored borehole and VIP lavatory, taking items including aluminium roofing sheets, windows, doors, overhead tanks, a water pump, and a generator. Residents were reportedly terrorized, living in fear following the incident.
Preliminary investigations allegedly identified Chief Esu as the prime suspect. He has been ordered to hand over all government property in his possession to the village council secretary.
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