The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has commenced a thorough investigation into the mysterious death of a 45-year-old man, Mr. Udeme Sunday Uko, who was discovered with a fatal gunshot wound while sleeping with his family in a church in Ukanafun Local Government Area of the state.
The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at a church located in Ikot Oku Usung village. According to the police, the victim and his family had taken refuge inside the church overnight when the shooting happened.
In a press statement issued by the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, the Command revealed that a gunshot was heard at about 12:10 a.m. while the family was asleep. Shortly after, Uko was found lying in a pool of blood, with a visible gunshot wound to his head.
The PPRO stated that investigations are considering both suicide and homicide angles, although no definitive conclusion has been reached at this stage.
“Akwa Ibom State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation into the suspected murder of Mr. Udeme Sunday Uko. He was found dead inside a church while sleeping with his wife and children. A locally made pistol was recovered from the scene,” the statement said.
Following the report from the victim’s wife, officers were immediately deployed to the scene. During their inspection, a locally fabricated pistol was discovered near the body. The police have taken the weapon as evidence and sent the deceased’s body to the mortuary for autopsy.
The Command confirmed that forensic experts would be involved in examining the weapon and other clues at the crime scene. This move aims to determine whether Uko was shot by an outsider or took his own life.
Community in Shock as Police Seek More Information
Residents of Ikot Oku Usung have expressed shock and confusion over the incident. Many described the late Uko as a peaceful man with no known enemies. The tragedy has sparked concern over safety, especially within places of worship that serve as temporary shelters.
DSP John urged members of the public with useful information to come forward and assist the ongoing investigation.
Command Promises Transparency and Justice
The Police Command has assured the public of transparency throughout the investigation. Authorities pledged to deploy all necessary resources to ensure that those responsible, if any, are brought to justice.
Regular updates on the case will be shared as more facts emerge.
