The community of Ukpum Ete in Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State, is demanding justice after 13-year-old Timothy Daniel was allegedly shot dead by a soldier on New Year’s Day.
The tragic incident has plunged the area into mourning and outrage.
The socio-cultural organisation of the community, Mboho Ukpum Ete, described the killing as “unacceptable” and called for the immediate identification and punishment of the soldier responsible.
In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Engr Patrick Udoma, the group condemned the “unprofessional conduct of army personnel attached to Sterling Petrochemical” and expressed deep dissatisfaction over the incident.
According to reports, Daniel, a junior secondary school student, was returning from a crossover service at Mount Zion Full Gospel Church with his 15-year-old sister, Miracle, when the shooting occurred along Akongntekong Road, Ete.
The church borders a compound formerly belonging to the late clan head, Clement Idemudo, now occupied by Chinese expatriates and guarded by soldiers attached to Sterling Petrochemical and Fertiliser Limited.
Eyewitness Anthony Akpan said the incident began when Miracle briefly crossed the road and was allegedly harassed by a soldier on duty.
“She protested when he touched her and cursed him,” Akpan said. “The soldier became angry and threatened her.”
Daniel, who was waiting for his sister on the opposite side of the road, reportedly intervened after hearing her cries.
Witnesses said a heated exchange ensued before the soldier allegedly fired his rifle, striking the boy. Daniel collapsed and died at the scene, shattering the calm of New Year celebrations and sending worshippers fleeing in panic.
In the chaos, property was reportedly damaged, including a BMW belonging to Obong Uyai Udoiwod, a former political adviser to the Ikot Abasi Local Council chairman, who had driven into the area during the disturbance.
The Army Public Relations Officer of 2 Brigade, Mbiokporo, Captain Lawal Bala Mohamed, confirmed the incident, saying the Military Police had taken over the investigation.
He assured the public that the Nigerian Army does not condone misconduct by its personnel and promised that justice would be served.
