The Akwa Ibom State Government has suspended the Village Head of Ikot Umo Essien in Essien Udim Local Government Area, Chief Monday Benjamin Esu, over alleged acts of terrorism and breaches of public peace.
In a statement issued in Uyo by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mkpisong Frank Archibong, the suspension—effective for a period of six months—is to allow for a full-scale investigation into various allegations levelled against the traditional ruler.
According to the statement, the allegations include involvement in activities that threatened peace and security, as well as the alleged sponsorship of vandalism and theft of facilities at the newly constructed blocks of shops at Ikot Ekpenyong Community Market, a neighbouring village. Other reports of nefarious activities linked to Chief Esu are also under investigation.
It would be recalled that in February 2024, hoodlums allegedly from Ikot Umo Essien Village stormed the local market in Ikot Ekpenyong Community, where they demolished, vandalised, and looted newly constructed market shops — a constituency project facilitated by the immediate past Member representing Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Nsikak Ekong.
The attackers also destroyed the FADAMA-sponsored borehole and VIP lavatory within the same area, carting away items including aluminium roofing sheets, windows, doors, overhead tanks, water pumps, and a generator. Residents were reportedly assaulted and intimidated, leaving the community in fear.
Commissioner Archibong, who led a State Government fact-finding delegation to the scene to assess the damage, was later taken to the Ikot Umo Essien Village Council Hall, where the looted items were allegedly recovered.
Preliminary investigations have reportedly identified Chief Monday Esu as the prime suspect in the incident.
The statement further directs that the suspended Village Head hand over all government property in his possession to the Village Council Secretary for the duration of the suspension.