The Akpabio, Nwoko conspiracy
We’re studying Essien Udim situation- DSS, Presidency
Following pressure from former Akwa Ibom State Governor and Senate Minority Leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio, a State High Court sitting in Ikot Ekpene, presided over by Hon Justice NFN Ntong has ordered the Akwa Ibom State Police Command to immediately release from custody Hon. Emmanuel Ben Udoh, the dreaded leader of the Akwa Marine Cult group that has been terrorizing Essien Udim and its environs.
Ben was arrested last month on the orders of then Acting President Prof Yemi Osinbajo for kidnapping, assassination, murder, conspiracy to kill, theft, among others. He was subsequently detained at the State Police Command at Ikot Akpan Abia.
Delivering judgment under the suit No. HT/FHR. 10/2017 brought before the Honourable Justice NFN Ntong, the presiding Judge on Wednesday, March 8, 2017, ordered for the release of Hon. Emmanuel Ben Udoh and Ukeme Emmanuel Ben (Applicants) who were arrested by the Essien Udim Divisional Police Headquarters and later taken to the State Police headquarters, Ikot Akpa Abia.
Justice Ntong who was appointed to the bench by Senator Godswill Akpabio while hearing on the matter brought before it, ordered the 3rd and 4th respondent who were SGT James (IPO SARS, UYO) and Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State to either by themselves or their agents, order the release of the Applicants who are said to be in the custody of the police on administrative bail fourth with and however, cause the two applicant to appear before the court on Friday 10th March 2017 by 2pm or so soon thereafter, for the purpose of hearing them.
According to Justice Ntong, the 1st -4th respondent Udeme Tom Udo, Samuel Mel Ikpa, SGT James (IPO SARS, UYO) and Commissioner of Police were ordered to restrained from taking any further step on the matter or petition pending the hearing of the matter on Friday 10th March.
But sources privy to the behind the scene politics that transpired before the judgment said it was politics that influenced the decision and the aim is to aid the suspects jump bail than be arraigned to testify in view of incriminating items found on them at the time of their arrest.
“I can tell you that the political establishment in Essien Udim have not slept since these criminals were arrested and are all out to ensure that they are released. The presidency is aware of what is happening and is keeping a close tabs on it. I think the Villa will review the situation and determine the next line of action but already the Department of State Services (DSS) have been ordered to place some Essien Udim politicians under surveillance” the source said.
The order by the Judge which was drafted by the Akwa Ibom State, Barr. Uwemedimo Nwoko, carefully avoided the charges of murder and incineration of Master Udo Friday Udom and Udo Ekpenyong Uwa – two young indigenes of Midim Atan by Emmanuel Ben shortly before his arrest currently being investigated by the IG team Abuja.
Also, the so called “brother” to the victim of the armed robbery is the notorious gang member of Akwa Marine who was appointed a “chief” by Emmanuel Ben. The cultist are on rampage currently in the community over the “good news” of the leader’s release with many indigenes expressing fears over their safety and life.
