An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Mr Otu Inyang, was shot dead by unknown gunmen in Ikot Udoma village, Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, shortly after the Crossover service heralding the New Year.

It was gathered that the victim was trailed and shot dead a few minutes into the new year while on his way home after attending the crossover service at Qua Iboe Church, Ikot Udoma village, Eket.

It was further learnt that the deceased said the closing prayers in the church to end the crossover service and was a few metres to his residence when he was waylaid and shot on his head.

Some unsuspecting worshippers returning home after the service said they did not know that the sound they heard was that of gunshots as many sounds from fireworks thrown by excited youths to herald the new year rented the air.

Unconfirmed sources alleged that the deceased was involved in a land dispute.

However, the President of Ekid Peoples Union and a former governorship candidate on the platform of defunct All Nigeria People Party (ANPP), Dr Samuel Udonsek, described the deceased as a formidable politician and community leader.

Confirming the incident, Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Odiko Macdon, described the occurrence as unfortunate and vowed to investigate and bring the culprits to book.

Mcdon said the Commissioner of Police, Andrew Amiengheme, had ordered the deputy commissioner of police to carry out a discreet investigation on the matter.

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