The joyous start of the new year in Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State, was shattered by tragedy when a 13-year-old boy was allegedly shot and killed by a soldier in the early hours of January 1st, 2026. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for justice from the grieving community.
A Night of Celebration Turns to Mourning
Timothy Daniel, a junior secondary school student, was returning home from a crossover service at the Mount Zion Full Gospel Church with his 15-year-old sister, Miracle, and other worshippers. The fatal shooting occurred along Akongntekong Road in the Ete area. The church is situated next to the former residence of the late clan head, Clement Idemudo, a compound now occupied by Chinese expatriates and guarded by soldiers attached to Sterling Petrochemical and Fertiliser Limited.
Eyewitness Account of Harassment and Violence
According to an eyewitness, Anthony Akpan, the tragic sequence of events began when Miracle briefly crossed the road near the church. A soldier on duty allegedly followed her and made inappropriate advances. "She protested when he touched her and cursed him," Akpan stated. "The soldier became angry and threatened her."
Timothy, who was waiting for his sister on the other side of the road, heard her cries and intervened. The teenager confronted the soldier about the alleged harassment, leading to a heated argument. Moments later, the soldier was said to have fired his rifle, hitting the boy. Timothy Daniel collapsed and died instantly at the scene.
Community Outcry and Official Response
The gunshot caused panic, scattering worshippers and damaging property, including a BMW vehicle belonging to Obong Uyai Udoiwod, a former political adviser. The socio-cultural organization of the area, Mboho Ukpum Ete, issued a strong statement condemning the killing. Signed by its Publicity Secretary, Engr Patrick Udoma, the group described the incident as "unacceptable" and demanded immediate justice.
"The President General of Mboho Ukpum Ete expresses deep dissatisfaction over the unprofessional conduct of army personnel attached to Sterling Petrochemical," the statement read. "This act has thrown the entire clan into mourning, and we insist that the perpetrator be identified and punished in accordance with the law."
When contacted, the Army Public Relations Officer of 2 Brigade, Mbiokporo, Captain Lawal Bala Mohamed, confirmed the incident. He stated that the Military Police had taken over the matter and an investigation was underway. Captain Mohamed assured the public that the Nigerian Army does not condone misconduct by its personnel and promised that justice would be served.
