There was tension in Ukanafun Local Government Area yesterday (Sunday) when unidentified gunmen shot and killed the newly sworn in Secretary of the council, Hon. Ime Atakpa. He is said to have been shot at close range in the chest in his livestock farm.
The late Atakpa, according to sources, left Uyo en route his village in Ikot Udo Obobo, Ukanafun local government area when he was reportedly accosted and shot by unidentified gunmen.
It was gathered that the late Ukanafun Council Secretary usually goes to his farm on weekends to ensure things are running smoothly. A source who pleaded not to be named told our reporter that the late Atakpa may have been trailed from Uyo down to his farm where he was shot and killed.
Another source explained that the gunmen may have laid ambush for him knowing full well that he was going to visit the farm since he does so regularly at weekends.
The shocking incident has generated tension and uncertainty with many now living in fear especially with the gruesome murder of Mr. Atakpa coming days after a prominent son of Ukanafun, Dr. Idongesit Udom was kidnapped.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Udo Ekpenyong whom the late Atakpa served as a Personal Assistant is reported to have left the Church on learning of the incident. A source who was at Qua Iboe Church during Sunday Service explained that Mr. Ekpenyong was seen making frantic movements around the Church and sooner than he received a call than he left the Church even before Governor Udom Emmanuel who is said to have worshipped there arrived. The Commissioner is said to have played a vital role in the appointment of the late Atakpa as Secretary of Ukanafun local government area of Akwa Ibom State.
Meanwhile, reactions have continued to trail the murder of Atakpa with many condemning the act as inhuman and callous. A source who spoke on the condition of anonymity expressed worry over the spate of crime in Ukanafun, warning that if security is not beefed up in the area, the people may have no choice but to abandon their homes.
The late Ime, it could be recalled, was sworn in barely a month ago as Secretary of Ukanafun local government area after a long wait with the Council Chairman, Barr Udomfu reportedly refusing to swear him in despite Governor Udom’s directives.
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