Etim Ekpo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State is reeling in shock and confusion following the gruesome murder of a 70-year-old woman, Mma-Offiong James Peter, by her son, Inyangake James Peter.
According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Akwa Ibom State Command, Odiko Macdon, the suspect was apprehended on April 4, 2024, around 9:00 am, after confessing to the heinous crime. Inyangake claimed he acted under the influence of a persistent voice commanding him to kill his mother.
The statement highlighted the disturbing incident, stating that Inyangake had been transferred to the state Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for thorough investigation.
In a related development, Solomon Asuquo Isaac was also arrested for the murder of his son, Iboro Isaac, during a family dispute in Ikot Obok Nsit, Nsit Ibom LGA, last year.
Cases of family members committing such heinous acts against their own kin have raised concerns within the Akwa Ibom State Command. Furthermore, the police apprehended Ekemini Edet Akpan for possession of illegal arms and ammunition during a stop-and-search operation along Calabar Itu Highway.
The suspects will face legal proceedings following investigations, as the command continues its efforts to ensure justice and maintain public safety.
The incident in Akwa Ibom State echoes a similar tragedy reported in April 2020 in Anambra State, where a 37-year-old man allegedly murdered his father in Umuchiana village, Aguata Local Government Area. Reports suggested that the suspect had exhibited unusual behavior leading up to the tragic event.