The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has confirmed the killing of a driver and the abduction of Samuel Ekerenam, an employee of Chevron Nigeria, in Eket Local Government Area.
The incident occurred on Saturday at around 8:00 PM within the premises of Hephzibah Shopping Mall, owned by the victim.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Timfon John, the assailants fired shots into the air to scare away bystanders, killed the victim’s personal driver, and overpowered his police escort before abducting him.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Joseph Eribo, along with his tactical commanders, has visited the crime scene. Efforts are currently in top gear to ensure the safe rescue of the victim,” John said.
A family source, who requested anonymity, disclosed that the kidnappers have yet to make contact or state their motive, leaving the family uncertain about whether the abduction was for ransom or another purpose.
The source also revealed that Ekerenam, a pastor and Chevron staff member, had returned home from work on the day he was kidnapped.
This is not the first time the Ekerenam family has faced such an ordeal.
Journalists recalled that the victim’s wife, Mrs. Glory Ekerenam, was abducted in Eket on October 17, 2019, and later rescued from a hideout in Ikot Ubo, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area.
Investigations are ongoing, and the police have assured the public of their commitment to resolving the case swiftly.