Akwa Ibom Assembly Raises Alarm Over Kidnap of 13 in Ini, Demands Immediate Government Action

By Asuquo Edem

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has raised concern over the alleged kidnapping of thirteen residents of Itu Mbonuso in Ini Local Government Area by persons suspected to be from Arochukwu, Abia State.

The alarm was raised during Monday’s plenary when the member representing Ini State Constituency, Hon. Lawrence Udoide, brought a matter before the House under a Matter of Urgent Public Importance. Hon. Udoide called on the Assembly to take swift action to secure the release of the abducted constituents and prevent a recurrence of the incident.

Contributing to the debate, Hon. Eric Akpan, member representing Nsit Ibom State Constituency, condemned what he described as a brazen invasion by Arochukwu elements. “Arochukwu invading Itu Mbonuso is unacceptable,” he stated. “The primary aim of government is the security of lives. Our government must interface with the Abia State Government. Our people have a right to live freely.”

Also lending his voice, Hon. Moses Essien, member representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency, noted the recurring nature of such incidents. “Barely three months ago, we had the same issues,” he said. “The House has a responsibility to speak out and invoke relevant sections of the law to protect our people. Government should be more concerned about solving these boundary disputes. The executive must understand the limits of its jurisdiction. I worry deeply about how those families are coping.”

Presiding over the session, the Speaker of the House, Elder Udeme Otong emphasized the gravity of the situation, urging the Akwa Ibom State Government to immediately engage the Abia State Government to ensure the release of the abducted persons. He also directed the Chairman, House Committee on Security, to liaise with Security agencies to get an update that will see to the release of those who were abducted .

The House has been adjourned to reconvene on 6th August, 2025

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