By: Bayero Ade
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of Samuel Ekerenam, a Chevron employee, and the killing of his driver in the Eket Local Government Area.
The incident occurred on Saturday, November 23, at about 8 p.m., within the premises of Hephzibah Shopping Mall in Eket. Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, revealed that the gunmen stormed the area, firing shots to disperse bystanders before killing Ekerenam’s driver and overpowering his police escort. The assailants then whisked Ekerenam away.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Joseph Eribo, along with his tactical commanders, has visited the crime scene, and efforts are in top gear to ensure the safe rescue of the victim,” John assured.
A family source, who requested anonymity, disclosed that the kidnappers have not yet contacted the family. “We are still trying to understand the motive behind the abduction, whether it is for ransom or something else, as there has been no communication from the kidnappers,” the source said.
The source also noted that Ekerenam, a pastor and Chevron employee, had just returned from work on the day he was abducted.
This is not the first time the family has faced such an ordeal. Ekerenam’s wife, Mrs. Glory Ekerenam, was abducted in Eket on October 17, 2019, and later rescued from the kidnappers’ den in Ikot Ubo, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area.
Police investigations into the recent incident are ongoing.
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