The tense political atmosphere in Akwa Ibom State took a bloody turn over the weekend following the gruesome killing of Mr. John Monday Marcus, the Ward 2 Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ukanafun Local Government Area.
The party stalwart was reportedly murdered during a violent confrontation sparked by allegations of embezzling funds meant to appreciate grassroots leaders from both APC and PDP factions.
LEADERSHIP investigations revealed that the funds in question were donated by a prominent politician from the ward who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, amid a wave of high-profile crossovers triggered by Governor Umo Eno’s recent switch to the ruling party.
The donation, intended as a goodwill gesture to both sides of the political divide, was allegedly hijacked by the late Marcus—sparking outrage among both new and old party loyalists.
Eyewitnesses recounted a chaotic scene at the meeting venue, where enraged party members, across factional lines, reportedly descended on Marcus with clubs and shattered bottles.
“His actions angered even his fellow APC members,” said Mfon Akpan, a local observer. “The brawl spiraled out of control, and he was beaten to death. His body was later moved to a nearby morgue.”
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local political establishment, further deepening internal tensions within the APC following the defection of Governor Umo Eno.
Sources claim the governor continues to wield considerable influence in both PDP and APC structures in a strategic bid to consolidate power ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement, APC Ukanafun LGA Publicity Secretary, Hon. Stanley Sunday Peter, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the Ward Chairman.
“Late John Monday Marcus was a dedicated and humble party loyalist who gave his best for the advancement of our party in Ukanafun.
His death is a painful reminder of the fragility of life and the dangerous undercurrents in our politics.”
Family members of the deceased have described the incident as both shocking and heartbreaking.
Meanwhile, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has confirmed the killing, with spokesperson DSP Timfon John stating that investigations are underway to apprehend those responsible.
“We are aware of the incident and have commenced full investigations to ensure all perpetrators are brought to justice,” she said.
As political fault lines widen in Akwa Ibom, the tragic death of Marcus stands as a grim warning of how violence, greed, and internal rivalry are fast becoming endemic within Nigeria’s evolving party system.
