The Ekori community in Cross River State has been plunged into sorrow following a Double Tragedy that claimed the life of former SUG president, Samuel Sampson Udo, during the wake-keeping ceremony for his late father. What was expected to be a peaceful night of remembrance turned into a devastating incident that highlighted the growing cult violence ravaging the state.
Udo, a 26-year-old former Student Union Government leader at the Peace Institute of Management and Technology (Peace Poly), Abak, had travelled home to honour his father’s memory. However, the Double Tragedy unfolded when rival cult groups invaded the event and unleashed gunfire, leaving several residents injured and the entire community shaken.
Deadly clash shatters solemn night
According to eyewitnesses, the chaos erupted around 2 a.m. on October 31 after tension between two cult factions escalated into an armed confrontation. In seconds, the quiet gathering turned into a disturbing scene of fear, panic, and bloodshed.
One resident, Utum Ofem Ubi, recalled the moment the atmosphere shifted: “The laughter and songs suddenly turned into screams. People were running into their homes and locking their doors. It was terrifying.”
Udo was said to have been struck by stray bullets while trying to flee to safety. Several others also sustained injuries, including 29-year-old Miss Choice Ikenger, who was hit multiple times and rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
Families struggle with grief and trauma
The sudden death of Udo has left his family shattered. His sister, Miss Affiong Sampson, described the brutal attack as heartless and deeply painful. “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,” she lamented.
Ikenger’s mother, Mrs. Silvia Ikenger, also shared the emotional toll of the incident. She described her daughter’s experience as “unbearable”, adding that their family has endured sleepless nights and financial strain while trying to keep her alive.
Community living in fear
Residents of Ekori say they now live in constant tension due to repeated cult assaults in the area. Many fear reprisals and are hesitant to provide information to law enforcement agencies.
“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,” said youth leader Mr. Omini Ebri.
The Double Tragedy has renewed concerns about the rising insecurity across Cross River State, where cult-related killings have sharply increased.
A growing pattern of violence
Reports show that at least nine people have been murdered in separate cult clashes across the state in 2025 alone. Earlier in the year, five lives were lost in Camp 2 Mfamosing during a retaliatory attack, while two more individuals were killed in Ikom LGA following a confrontation involving the Vikings and KK groups.
The instability has spread to academic institutions, where students have been shot during examinations and lecturers assassinated in suspected cult-related incidents.
“These killings are not new, but they are getting worse,” social critic Mr. Mbeh Egbe noted. “People are literally getting away with murder.”
Experts and leaders call for urgent reforms
Criminologist Dr. Asuquo Etim explained that cultism continues to thrive due to high unemployment, poverty, and limited opportunities for young people. He described the situation as a “vicious cycle” that demands serious intervention.
Community leader and lawyer, Chief Barrister Okoi Obono-Obla, insisted that the federal and state governments must take the matter seriously. “I have raised alarm for years about this growing decay. Unless decisive action is taken, this could escalate into a full-scale blood conflict,” he warned.
Police and residents call for justice
The Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Igiri Ewa, confirmed that investigations have begun, adding that security agencies are working discreetly to track down the attackers. “Justice will be served,” he assured.
Meanwhile, youth advocate Comrade Ojong Amba urged all stakeholders to unite in confronting the menace. He emphasized the need for sustained action to restore peace across Cross River communities.
Residents are now pleading with the government for stronger security measures, insisting that decisive intervention is the only way to prevent future tragedies and protect vulnerable communities from continuous violence.