The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has launched a full investigation into the suspected murder of a 45-year-old man, Mr. Udeme Sunday Uko, who was found dead inside a church where he had been sleeping overnight with his family.
According to a press statement released late Tuesday night by the State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, August 5, 2025, around 12:10 a.m. at Ikot Oku Usung village, located in Ukanafun Local Government Area of the state.
“The preliminary report indicates that Mr. Udeme Uko, along with his wife and children, was sleeping inside the church premises when a gunshot was heard. He was later found with a gunshot wound to the head,” said DSP John.
Authorities say the incident could either be a case of suicide or a targeted attack, but a full-scale homicide investigation is now underway to uncover the truth.
Locally Made Pistol Recovered at Scene
Following a distress call from the deceased’s wife, concerned residents quickly alerted law enforcement officers. A police team was dispatched immediately to the crime scene where a locally fabricated pistol was recovered as evidence.
The statement further confirmed that the victim’s body has been deposited at the mortuary for autopsy and preservation, while forensic teams continue their analysis.
Police Vow to Bring Perpetrators to Justice
While assuring residents of Ukanafun and Akwa Ibom at large of a transparent investigation, the police spokesperson emphasized the command’s commitment to uncovering the facts and ensuring justice is served.
“The Akwa Ibom State Police Command is deploying all necessary resources to get to the bottom of this case. We urge the public to remain calm and allow the police to do their job,” the statement read.
Investigators are exploring multiple angles, including the possibility of domestic violence, personal vendetta, or cult-related activity, although no conclusive leads have been released at this time.
