Police in Cross River State have arrested a 40-year-old man, Akaninyene Eretus, who is accused of killing two men in Creek Town, Odukpani Local Government Area, in what he claims was an act of revenge for his family’s deaths.
The Cross River State Police Command said the suspect allegedly killed two victims, identified as Okokon and Okon, on May 24 and 25, 2026. He was later arrested by detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to the killings, saying he was driven by pain and long-standing anger over the deaths of his parents and two elder brothers, who he said were killed during a communal crisis nearly 29 years ago.
According to him, he had lived with the trauma for decades before deciding to take revenge. He allegedly stated that one victim was attacked while asleep, while the other was killed with a machete.
Inside Cross River:
Suspected Serial Killer Arrested in Cross River, Confesses to Killing 30 People
Cross River Man Arrested for Killing Girlfriend Over Alleged Infidelity
Arsonists Attack Cross River Catholic Church, Burn Records, Priest’s Car
Police confirmed that two bodies believed to be the victims have been recovered and deposited in a morgue for preservation, identification, and autopsy.
Earlier reports had sparked confusion after shallow graves were discovered in a forest area in Abanyama, Ukim Ita community, leading to online claims that as many as 30 people may have been killed.
However, authorities dismissed the reports, stressing that only two deaths have been verified.
The police spokesperson warned against spreading unconfirmed information, noting that such rumours could cause unnecessary panic in the state.
He added that investigations are ongoing and that the suspect’s statements are still being verified. The command said charges will be filed after forensic and legal processes are concluded.
Residents have been urged to remain calm and report any useful information to security agencies as investigations continue.
About the Author
