Tragedy struck in Ward 2, Ukanafun Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, following the violent death of the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman, Mr. John Monday Marcus, during a heated altercation within the party ranks.
Reports say the crisis began after a prominent politician who recently joined the APC made a cash donation to appreciate grassroots leaders.
However, the fund allegedly ended up in the hands of the ward chairman, who was accused of hijacking it.
The move was met with stiff opposition from some APC members, including factions previously affiliated with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
An eyewitness described the incident as chaotic and bloody.
“The action of the deceased infuriated the old APC faithfuls who descended on him and smashed his head with bottle and he died on the spot,” the source told Daily Sun, adding that the meeting ended in a brutal brawl.
The remains of the slain chairman were reportedly moved to a local mortuary shortly after the attack.
The late Marcus’s family has expressed deep sorrow and disbelief at the manner of his death. Meanwhile, the APC in Ukanafun LGA has officially reacted to the tragedy with a statement mourning the deceased.
According to Hon. Stanley Sunday Peter, the APC Publicity Secretary in Ukanafun, “Late John Monday was a committed party loyalist…
“He played a pivotal role in mobilising support for the party in past elections and was widely respected for his humility, discipline and selfless service to the party and his community.”
Peter went on to describe Marcus as “a leader, brother, and tireless servant of APC,” stating that his death has left a painful vacuum in the party’s grassroots leadership.
“His contributions to the advancement of APC in Ward 2 and Ukanafun at large will remain indelible in the minds of the people,” he added.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Akwa Ibom State Command, DSP Timfon John, said: “Yes, we are aware of the incident and investigation is ongoing to bring perpetrators of the crime to book.”