Governor Umo Eno’s government of Akwa Ibom State has suspended the Village Head of Ikot Umo Essien, Chief Monday Esu, over alleged acts of terrorism and breaches of public peace.
Naijaonpoint reports that the decision was announced in a statement issued on Wednesday in Uyo by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Frank Archibong.
Archibong said the suspension would last for six months to allow a full-scale investigation into the allegations levelled against the embattled village head.
According to the commissioner, Chief Esu’s suspension followed reports linking him to activities capable of destabilising the community, including alleged sponsorship of vandalism and theft at a newly constructed block of shops in Ikot Ekpenyong community market.
“The allegations against the village head include acts that breach peace and security, such as alleged sponsorship of vandalism and theft of facilities at newly constructed blocks of shops at the Ikot Ekpenyong community market,”Archibong stated.
He explained that the state government could not ignore acts capable of undermining law and order in rural communities.
The statement recalled that hoodlums, reportedly from Ikot Umo Essien village, had recently invaded the Ikot Ekpenyong community market, where they allegedly demolished, vandalised and looted newly built shops.
“The block of shops was a constituency project facilitated by the immediate past member representing Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, Mr. Nsikak Ekong, in February 2024,” Archibong said.
He further disclosed that the criminals did not stop at the shops but went ahead to destroy a Fadama-sponsored borehole and a VIP lavatory within the market premises, carting away valuable items such as aluminium roofing sheets, doors, windows, overhead tanks, generators and water pumps.
“They also unleashed mayhem and intimidated residents of the area, making them live in fear,” the commissioner added.
Archibong said early findings from the state’s investigative team allegedly identified Chief Esu as the prime suspect behind the incident.
“Preliminary investigations have identified the Village Head of Ikot Umo Essien, Chief Monday Esu, as the principal suspect in the attacks,”
He said.
Consequently, the traditional ruler has been directed to hand over all government property in his possession to the village council secretary pending the conclusion of the investigation.
The Commissioner reiterated that the Akwa Ibom State Government remains committed to maintaining peace and security in all communities across the state.
He warned that the government would not hesitate to discipline any traditional ruler or community leader found to be aiding or abetting criminal activity.
“The Ministry will continue to uphold discipline and ensure that traditional institutions remain symbols of peace, unity and development,”
Archibong said.
© 2025 Naijaonpoint, a division of NOP Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]