The family of a commercial driver, Ternenge Ikpanor, who was allegedly stoned to death in Obudu, Cross River State, has called for the immediate release of his body for proper burial.
His death is linked to a renewed communal crisis between Tsar community in Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State and the Abonkib community in Obudu, Cross River State.
Ikpanor, a native of Tsar Mbaduku, was said to have transported goods and passengers from Gboko, Benue State, to Obudu when he was ambushed and killed.
In a statement on behalf of the family, the deceased’s uncle, Dr. Elijah Ikpanor, appealed to the Inspector General of Police to ensure the arrest of those responsible for the killing.
He also urged the Cross River State Government to facilitate the release of the victim’s remains.
The statement further alleged that the assailants circulated a video of the gruesome incident on social media, claiming that the victim was from Tsar Mbaduku — a community with a history of boundary-related conflict with Abonkib in Obudu.
In response to rising tensions, a joint team of security agencies and local government officials reportedly evacuated residents from both communities to prevent further violence.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Benue nor Cross River State Government has issued an official statement on the incident.
Writing by Tersoo Zamber