Cross River Police Apprehend Two Chiefs in Deadly Chieftaincy Dispute
The Cross River State Police Command has taken decisive action by arresting two principal suspects in connection with a violent chieftaincy crisis that erupted in the Odot Uyi community, located in Odukpani Local Government Area. This incident, which has sent shockwaves through the region, involved multiple murders and extensive arson, highlighting the severe consequences of traditional leadership conflicts.
Escalation of Violence Over Village Head Title
On February 2, 2026, at approximately 4:50 pm, authorities received urgent reports indicating that a long-simmering dispute over the village head title had escalated into deadly violence. The conflict resulted in the tragic deaths of two individuals and the deliberate burning of the village head's residence. This arson attack caused significant destruction, with properties valued at millions of naira reduced to ashes, exacerbating the community's turmoil.
Police Mobilization and Arrests
In response to the crisis, Supol Odukpani led a swift and coordinated effort, mobilizing police and tactical units with reinforcements from Mopol 11. This operation was conducted under the direct supervision of the Commissioner of Police in Calabar, ensuring a robust response to the escalating situation. Upon arrival at the scene, officers found the village largely deserted, with only some animals remaining, underscoring the fear and disruption caused by the violence.
Following an intensive combing operation, law enforcement officials arrested Chief Ntia Okon Bassey, a 62-year-old village head-elect. He had been accused by villagers of financial mismanagement, a charge that fueled the tensions leading to the crisis. Additionally, Chief Okon Nyong, who was attempting to flee, was apprehended, while the clan head remains at large, prompting ongoing police efforts to locate him.
Casualties and Ongoing Investigations
Intelligence gathered during the operation revealed that three persons lost their lives during the violent outbreak. The victims have been identified as Edem Ekpo Nyong, 30, and Ekpo Ekpo Nyong, 26, among others, whose deaths have left the community in mourning. The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed that investigations have commenced to uncover the full details of the incident and bring all perpetrators to justice.
ASP Sunday Eitokpah Akata, the spokesperson for the command, provided an update on the situation, stating that normalcy has been restored in the community. He emphasized that police are actively pursuing other fleeing suspects to ensure comprehensive accountability for the crimes committed. The swift police action has been credited with preventing further violence and stabilizing the area, though the emotional and material scars of the crisis remain.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for chieftaincy disputes to escalate into severe violence, affecting not only the individuals directly involved but also the broader community. The Cross River State Police Command continues to monitor the situation closely, urging residents to cooperate with authorities and report any suspicious activities to prevent future outbreaks.
