Lecturer's Emotional Tribute to Murdered Colleague
A Nigerian lecturer has paid an emotional tribute to his late colleague during what would have been his birthday, while the two men accused of his kidnapping and murder continue to face trial in court. Edet Ekanem, a lecturer in Akwa Ibom State, marked the posthumous birthday of his colleague Ubong Friday John with a heartfelt Facebook message that highlighted the tragic circumstances of his death.
The Tragic Events and Court Proceedings
The victim, Ubong Friday John, was a respected lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication at Obong University, located in Obong Ntak within Etim Ekpo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. According to the details emerging from the case, John left his home in Uyo on Sunday, July 16, 2023, after informing his wife he was traveling to his village in Ukwok, Ini Local Government Area.
The two suspects currently standing trial, identified as Sylvanus Effiong Asukwo and Solomon Boniface Okon, have reportedly confessed to luring John to a secluded location where they kidnapped him and subsequently killed him. Investigations into the matter reveal that the murder was connected to a business dispute involving rice importation and debt recovery operations.
Call for Justice and Remembrance
In his Facebook post dated Saturday, November 22, 2025, Ekanem wrote a poignant message directed at his deceased colleague. "Posthumous Birthday Celebration! Otuekong Udemsandco John, you would have been a year older today. But your friends Sylvanus Effiong Asukwo and Solomon Boniface Okon conspired, kidnapped and murdered you. Your murderers are standing trial in the court. We believe that justice will be served. Adieu dear!"
The case has drawn attention to the growing concerns about violent crimes in Nigeria, particularly those involving acquaintances. The judicial process continues as the accused face their day in court, while the academic community mourns the loss of a respected educator. Colleagues and family members remain hopeful that the Nigerian justice system will deliver appropriate judgment in this heartbreaking case that has left the educational community in mourning.
