Angry Youths Torch Military Vehicles After Soldier Kills Protester in Akwa Ibom

Tension erupted in Ete, Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State as irate youths set fire to five military vehicles in retaliation for the killing of a youth activist by a soldier attached to Sterling Global, an oil firm. The incident, which occurred early Wednesday, was reportedly triggered when soldiers allegedly attempted to extort a diesel-bearing truck. According to a resident, Effiong Ekwere, the outraged youths confronted the soldiers, leading to an altercation. In an attempt to break free, one soldier fired at the youth activist, killing him instantly. The fatal shooting ignited widespread violence, with protesters blocking the East-West Road, causing severe traffic disruption for travelers between Akwa Ibom and Rivers States. “There is a crisis in Ete. A soldier on duty at Sterling Global shot and killed a community member today. This comes just a week after another person was killed,” a resident stated. Furious over persistent harassment and brutality by the military, youths retaliated by setting ablaze five military trucks, including a bus and a Hilux van. “The community has had enough. The soldiers should focus on their official duty and leave innocent citizens alone,” another source added. The 2 Brigade headquarters in Uyo confirmed the incident, assuring that security forces have restored order. Authorities are expected to intervene to de-escalate tensions in the oil-producing community. Related Posts Market offers rent-now, pay-later answer to tenants. Prospective renters in Nigeria can now breathe a sigh of relief as a rental solution that simplifies renting and facilitates Read more Rwanda retreat: Nigerian governments discuss complex issues. The Nigerian governors will attend and participate in a three-day leadership retreat in Kigali, Rwanda, designed to provide a platform Read more 8 Ways to Encourage Daily Walking Moving your body is one of the best things you can do for your physical and mental health, but you Read more Shaibu: I support Obaseki and seek governorship. Philip Shaibu, the deputy governor of Edo State, has pledged to remain loyal to Edo State’s governor, Godwin Obaseki, despite Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.
Governor Umo Eno Sets Agenda for New Akwa Ibom Executive Council

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has outlined key priorities for the newly inaugurated 27-member State Executive Council (SEC), emphasizing the need for effective governance and the delivery of democratic dividends to the people. The council, which comprises 25 commissioners and two special advisers, held its maiden meeting at the Exco Chambers of the Government House in Uyo, where the governor warned against complacency and policy sabotage, urging strict adherence to his administration’s ARISE Agenda blueprint. Briefing journalists after the meeting, the new Commissioner for Information, Elder Aniekan Umanah, announced major resolutions, including the renaming of the Ministry of Economic Development to the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning. The governor also approved the posting of an additional Permanent Secretary to the ministry to enhance coordination between budgeting and economic planning. Additionally, the council reviewed 35 new projects set to be launched before May 29, 2025, and resolved to appoint Delivery Advisors for each project to ensure smooth execution and timely completion. Related Posts Tinubu Unveils Ambitious Economic Plan to Halve Inflation by 2025 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has outlined an ambitious economic agenda aimed at reducing Nigeria’s inflation rate from the current 34.6% Read more Nigeria and the British Monarchy: A Legacy of Visits and Diplomatic Ties Throughout history, Nigeria has enjoyed a unique relationship with the British Monarchy, marked by mutual visits that reflect shared historical, Read more 2024 Elections: A Mixed Bag of Milestones, Setbacks, and Electoral Integrity Challenges The year 2024 marked a significant milestone for Nigeria as it celebrated 25 years of uninterrupted democratic rule. The electoral Read more Kano State Opposes Tinubu’s Tax Reforms, Calls for Focus on Poverty and Insecurity The Kano State government has rejected the proposed tax reform bills by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing them as “ill-timed, Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.
Akwa Ibom Acting First Lady Commemorates World Leprosy Day, Advocates for Dignity and Inclusion

The Acting First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Mrs. Helen Eno Obareki, has marked World Leprosy Day by worshipping with dozens of leprosy patients at Qua Iboe Church (QIC) Leprosy Hospital, Ekpene Obom, in Etinan Local Government Area. Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Patrick Essiet, Lady Obareki emphasized that the annual observance is not only about raising awareness but also about recognizing the resilience and dignity of those affected by the disease. “Leprosy is a disease that has plagued many for centuries, often bringing physical challenges alongside social stigma and isolation. We are here today to break these barriers and extend our hands in support and kindness to those affected,” she stated. The event, themed “A Unified Call for Dignity and Healing,” was in line with the global campaign, “Unite, Act, Eliminate,” which seeks to create awareness and eradicate the stigma associated with leprosy. She called on individuals and organizations to work towards making leprosy a manageable condition rather than a source of discrimination. Presenting gifts to the patients, she noted that the items symbolize inclusivity and the collective commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind. In his remarks, the Medical Superintendent of the hospital, Dr. Udeme Akpan, stressed the importance of combating societal stigma and reintegrating survivors into society through skill acquisition programs. He commended Governor Umo Eno’s commitment to healthcare and called for more support from the government, donor agencies, and individuals to improve the welfare of those affected by leprosy. Related Posts Market offers rent-now, pay-later answer to tenants. Prospective renters in Nigeria can now breathe a sigh of relief as a rental solution that simplifies renting and facilitates Read more Rwanda retreat: Nigerian governments discuss complex issues. The Nigerian governors will attend and participate in a three-day leadership retreat in Kigali, Rwanda, designed to provide a platform Read more 8 Ways to Encourage Daily Walking Moving your body is one of the best things you can do for your physical and mental health, but you Read more Shaibu: I support Obaseki and seek governorship. Philip Shaibu, the deputy governor of Edo State, has pledged to remain loyal to Edo State’s governor, Godwin Obaseki, despite Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.
Ex-Militants Protest in Akwa Ibom, Accuse FG of Breaching Amnesty Agreement

Over 200 repentant Niger Delta militants staged a peaceful protest at the Ukanafun Local Government Headquarters in Ikot Akpankuk, Akwa Ibom State, accusing the federal government of failing to honor the 2009 amnesty deal that led to their disarmament. Led by Udom Ebetor under the aegis of the Ukanafun Freedom Fighters (UFF), the protesters carried placards with inscriptions demanding urgent federal intervention in addressing issues of welfare, job creation, and empowerment promised in the amnesty agreement. One placard read, “The federal government has failed to keep its words in training and empowering the ex-militants to become economically self-reliant.” Another accused officials of the amnesty office of tribal discrimination, alleging that militants from the Akwa Ibom axis were marginalized. Ebetor, who led the Supreme Council of Niger State (SUCOND) to surrender arms in 2009, revealed that many militants had initially refused to disarm due to skepticism about the federal government’s sincerity. He lamented the continued plight of ex-militants in Akwa Ibom, claiming that while others benefited from the program, local leaders neglected their people’s welfare. Having undergone amnesty training in Vietnam, Ebetor denied any involvement in cultism or criminal activities. He urged the protesters to remain peaceful and avoid illegal acts, warning that the protest was a result of prolonged neglect. “The protest is a call to the federal government to act before the issue escalates,” he stated. Addressing the protesters, Paul Mel Udoh, Community Orientation and Mobilisation Officer (COMO) for the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in Ukanafun LGA, assured them that their demands would be transmitted to Abuja. He promised that the federal government would address their grievances. Related Posts Market offers rent-now, pay-later answer to tenants. Prospective renters in Nigeria can now breathe a sigh of relief as a rental solution that simplifies renting and facilitates Read more Rwanda retreat: Nigerian governments discuss complex issues. The Nigerian governors will attend and participate in a three-day leadership retreat in Kigali, Rwanda, designed to provide a platform Read more Shaibu: I support Obaseki and seek governorship. Philip Shaibu, the deputy governor of Edo State, has pledged to remain loyal to Edo State’s governor, Godwin Obaseki, despite Read more Citigroup expects more foreign investment in Nigeria and others despite FX turmoil. Citigroup Inc. has stated that Nigeria, Angola, and Kenya are among the African nations that are anticipated to attract more Read more Olawale Moses OyewoleOlawale Moses Oyewole is an adept writer who stays on top of current events and curate informative and engaging articles for his readers. He is a digital strategist who help brands gain online visibility.