Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Calabar, Cross River State — The Cross River State Police Command has apprehended principal suspects following a violent chieftaincy dispute in Odot Uyi community, Odukpani Local Government Area, that led to multiple killings and arson, security sources confirmed Monday.
According to police reports, the crisis unfolded on February 2, 2026, at about 4:50 p.m., when intelligence was received that a conflict over the position of village head had escalated into fatal violence. The clash reportedly resulted in the deaths of two persons, and the burning of the village head’s residence, causing property losses estimated in the millions of naira.
Upon receiving the information, Supol Odukpani led combined police and tactical units, with reinforcement from Mopol 11, under the supervision of the Commissioner of Police, Calabar. Responding teams quickly mobilised and proceeded to the scene. On arrival, the village was largely deserted, with only domestic animals present.
A subsequent combing operation led to the arrest of Chief Ntia Okon Bassey, 62, the village head-elect, who villagers had accused of financial mismanagement — a factor believed to have fuelled tensions. Another suspect, Chief Okon Nyong, was also arrested after being traced while attempting to flee the area. However, the clan head remains at large, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend all those involved.
Preliminary investigations indicate that at least three persons were killed during the violence, including Edem Ekpo Nyong, 30, and Ekpo Ekpo Nyong, 26. Their deaths have deepened concerns over the escalation of traditional leadership disputes into deadly conflicts in rural communities.
Police confirmed that normalcy has since been restored in Odot Uyi, and that investigative teams are pursuing other suspects who fled the community during the outbreak. Authorities also emphasised that the rule of law will be upheld, and those found culpable will face prosecution under relevant criminal statutes.
The Cross River State Police Command has appealed to residents to remain calm and assist with ongoing investigations, while urging traditional institutions and community stakeholders to resolve disputes through established legal and customary mechanisms rather than violence.
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