The peaceful community of Ekori in Cross River State has been plunged into deep mourning following a brutal cult clash that claimed the life of former Student Union Government President Samuel Sampson Udo during his father's wake-keeping ceremony.
Night of Mourning Turns Deadly
What was intended as a solemn night of remembrance for a respected community leader transformed into a scene of terror and bloodshed when rival cult gangs opened fire at approximately 2 a.m. on October 31. The 26-year-old former SUG president of Peace Institute of Management and Technology (Peace Poly) in Abak was among those caught in the crossfire.
Eyewitness accounts describe how the atmosphere suddenly shifted from respectful mourning to chaotic panic. Utum Ofem Ubi, a local resident, recalled the terrifying moment: "The laughter and songs suddenly turned into screams. People were running into their homes and locking their doors. It was terrifying."
Samuel Udo reportedly sustained fatal bullet wounds while attempting to seek safety from the violent exchange. The attack also left 29-year-old Miss Choice Ikenger with severe gunshot injuries, adding to the tragedy's devastating toll.
Families Shattered by Violence
The Udo family, already grieving the loss of their patriarch, now faces the unimaginable trauma of losing their son during the very ceremony meant to honor his father. Udo's sister, Miss Affiong Sampson, expressed the family's anguish in stark terms: "They shot him as if he was an animal. His body is still in the mortuary. Our family has not known peace since that night."
The Ikenger family similarly endures tremendous suffering as they struggle to care for their injured daughter. Mrs Silvia Ikenger, Choice's mother, described her daughter's condition as being in "unbearable pain" and characterized their experience as a living nightmare.
Community Living in Fear
Residents of Ekori report that cult-related violence has become increasingly common in their community, creating an environment of constant apprehension. Many community members now fear speaking publicly or cooperating with security agencies due to potential retaliation.
Mr Omini Ebri, a youth leader in the area, voiced the community's growing concerns: "We are living in constant fear. It's not just about the killings; it's about what this means for the future of our children and our community."
The incident highlights a disturbing pattern of escalating cult violence across Cross River State. Official records indicate that at least nine people have lost their lives in separate cult-related incidents during 2025 alone.
Root Causes and Urgent Calls for Action
Criminologist Dr Asuquo Etim identified several underlying factors driving cultism in the region, emphasizing that "unemployment, poverty, and the lure of power" create a vicious cycle that particularly affects young people with limited opportunities.
Community leader and legal expert Chief Barrister Okoi Obono-Obla issued a stark warning, stating that this latest tragedy must serve as a critical wake-up call for authorities. He emphasized that without decisive intervention, the situation could escalate into full-scale blood conflict.
Law enforcement authorities have assured the public that investigations are progressing. Mr Igiri Ewa, Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed that "several discreet operations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of this dastardly act" and promised that justice would be served.
Youth leader Comrade Ojong Amba joined growing calls for coordinated action, urging both residents and authorities to unite against the menace of cult violence. He emphasized that Cross River State deserves peace and security for all its citizens.
The Ekori community tragedy follows similar patterns of violence during funeral ceremonies across Nigeria, including a recent incident in Anambra State where gunmen attacked mourners during a burial service, resulting in four fatalities and numerous injuries.
