Fear grip A’Ibom community as soldier allegedly gun down youth

Tension has escalated in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State following the alleged killing of a youth by a soldier attached to Sterling Global Limited, an oil company.  

The soldier, whose identity remains undisclosed, reportedly shot the youth from Ete community over allegations of diesel theft.

The incident has fueled growing unrest in the area, especially as it comes barely a week after another military personnel was accused of fatally shooting a resident in the same locality.

Sources in the area revealed that the killing occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, February 25, 2025.

However, later that night, angry youths mobilized for a reprisal attack, beating up the soldier and setting fire to several trucks and vehicles belonging to the oil company.

An eyewitness narrated how the soldier had chased the youth suspected of stealing diesel.

“When he caught up with him, instead of arresting him, he shot him at close range, leading to his death. The youths, outraged by the incident, attacked the soldier, beating him severely before he was rushed to a hospital,” the source stated.

It was gathered that the injured soldier is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed medical facility in the state.

Confirming the incident, the Akwa Ibom State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, stated that the police were aware of the situation but could not yet verify if any lives were lost.

“The command is aware of the incident but has yet to confirm if there was any loss of life. What I can confirm is that the soldier is receiving medical treatment,” he said.

The unrest has led to a serious security situation along the East-West Road leading to Port Harcourt, with at least five trucks, a bus, and a Hilux vehicle belonging to the company reportedly set ablaze by the irate youths.

As of the time of filing this report, the Ikot Abasi-Port Harcourt road remains blocked, prompting authorities to advise travelers and motorists to avoid the route until normalcy is restored.