Ekori, a town in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, is presently boiling following the killing of one Sampson Udo, at the funeral wake-keep of his father, who was the community head.

Reports confirmed that last night in Ekori, a group of drug-influenced cultists opened fire during the wake-keep and killed Sampson.

The development had led to wild reactions in the community.

The killing reportedly took place at the venue of the funeral, and has been described by community sources as tragic and senseless.

A traditional ruler in Ugep who is a former presidential aide, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla who confirmed the killing said, “There is serious tension in the community.”

Obono-Obla stated that if nothing is done urgently, the situation may spiral into a bloody conflict as rival gangs are spoiling for a big fight.

Ugep and few other towns in Yakurr LGA have witnessed drug related violence in the last three months, leading to cross fire violence that left some persons dead.

The traditional ruler called on all stakeholders, community leaders, security agencies, and peace advocates, to act now before it is too late.

About two months ago, Obono-Obla had raised petitions to the Inspector General of Police, the National Security Adviser and the Department of State Services, DSS, on the serious security situation in Yakurr LGA.

“It breaks my heart to see what Yakurr LGA has become. For years, I’ve spoken up about the social decay caused by corrupt politicians, misguided leaders, and disoriented youths,” the monarch said.

Reacting to the incident, former special assistant to ex-Vice President Prof Yemi Osibanjo, Philip Obin, said, “The killing is deeply saddening. Yakurr LGA has always been known for its strong communal spirit, and it’s painful to see it drifting this way.

“The loss of young Sampson is not just a family tragedy but a wake-up call to all of us. Our people deserve peace and purposeful leadership, not fear and division. I join in calling on security agencies, traditional institutions, and government at all levels to step in swiftly. The time to rebuild Yakurr’s unity and moral strength is now.”

Chairman of the local government area, Yibala Igiri Inyang and the Deputy PRO of Police at the state command, DSP Igri Ewa, were not forthcoming with their responses on the development.