A 45-year-old man, Mr. Udeme Sunday Uko, was found dead with a gunshot wound to the head while sleeping with his wife and children inside a church in Ikot Oku Usung village, located in Ukanafun Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement released on Tuesday evening by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Timfon John.
According to the statement, the tragic event occurred around 12:10 a.m. on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. The family had taken shelter for the night in the church when a loud gunshot was heard. Moments later, Mr. Uko was discovered lying in a pool of blood, having sustained a fatal wound to the head.
Preliminary investigations suggest the cause could be either a suicide or a targeted attack, though police say further investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances.
“Officers responded promptly after receiving a distress call from concerned residents, who were informed of the incident by the victim’s wife,” the statement read.
A locally fabricated pistol was recovered from the scene as part of the ongoing investigation. Mr. Uko’s remains have since been deposited at a morgue for preservation and autopsy.
The police assured the public that a thorough investigation is being carried out and pledged to bring those responsible to justice.
“Every necessary resource is being deployed to ensure justice is served,” the command stated. Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
