The Akwa Ibom Government has suspended the Village Head of Ikot Umo Essien, Chief Monday Esu, in Essien Udim Local Government Area, for alleged acts of terrorism.

This is contained in a statement by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Frank Archibong, in Uyo on Wednesday.

Archibong stated that the suspension was for a period of six months to facilitate a full-scale investigation into the various allegations leveled against the village head.

He stated that the allegations against the village head include acts that breach peace and security, such as alleged sponsorship of vandalism and theft of facilities at newly constructed blocks of shops at the Ikot Ekpenyong community market, among others.

According to him, it will be recalled that hoodlums, allegedly from Ikot Umo Essien village, stormed the local market in Ikot Ekpenyong community, demolishing, vandalising, and looting the newly constructed blocks of shops.

”The block of shops was a constituency project facilitated by the immediate past member representing Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, Mr Nsikak Ekong, in February 2024.

”The alleged criminal element went further to destroy the Fadama-sponsored borehole and VIP Lavatory within the same vicinity, carting away items such as aluminium roofing sheets, windows, doors, overhead tanks, water pump, and generator.

“They also unleashed mayhem and intimidated residents of the area, making them live in fear.”

The commissioner stated that preliminary investigations allegedly identified the Esu as the prime suspect.

He said that the village head had therefore been ordered to hand over all government property in his possession to the village council secretary. (VANGUARD)