Tension erupted in Cross River State on Monday as residents from Nwang I and II communities and other parts of the Ekajuk clan in Ogoja Local Government Area clashed with police, demanding the release of a murder suspect.
The suspect, 35-year-old Malime Sunday Ejor, was arrested for allegedly killing his 26-year-old girlfriend, Moshie Lucy Igu, on Saturday at a farm in Nwang Village.
Police reports stated that Ejor attacked the victim at the farm before dragging her to a nearby stream, where she sustained fatal machete wounds.
Sources close to the investigation suggested that the suspect allegedly committed the act over a personal dispute, claiming he suspected the victim of infidelity.
Following the arrest, angry youths had previously attempted to take the law into their own hands, prompting police to intervene and place the suspect in custody for his protection.
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However, unrest flared on Monday when protesters stormed the Ogoja Area Command, insisting that Ejor be released.
According to the Cross River State Police spokesperson, Sunday Etiokpah, the crowd became violent, attacking officers and vandalising a Hyundai vehicle and parts of the Rapid Response Squad building.
Smoke canisters were deployed to disperse the mob, and eight individuals were arrested. The suspects were later handed over to a community leader in an effort to restore calm.
Etiokpah confirmed that the suspect had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Calabar for further investigations.
Authorities have appealed to residents to remain calm, assuring them that justice will be served through due process.
The incident highlights growing tensions in local communities over serious criminal cases and underscores the importance of law enforcement maintaining order while ensuring fair investigations.
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