The family of late Ternenge Iorkyaa Ikpanor, a Tiv commercial motor driver allegedly murdered by a mob in Obudu, Cross River State, has called for swift justice and an independent investigation into his killing, which they described as inhuman and barbaric.
Addressing a press conference on behalf of the grieving family, Elijah Terdoo Ikpanor recounted the horrific incident on Friday, July 18, 2025.
Late Ikpanor, popularly known as “Agege”, was reportedly stoned to death by a mob in Obudu town under what the family termed criminal and ethnically motivated circumstances.
The deceased who hails from Mbanyam, Mbaduku in Benue State, was described as a hardworking and law-abiding man who earned his living as a commercial transporter.
According to the family, his death was linked to tensions stemming from a separate conflict between Mbazerem people of Mbaduku and the Abonkip community of Obudu—areas geographically distant from where the murder occurred.
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The family spokesman said the barbaric act has left the bereaved family, his community and all peace-loving Nigerians in an indescribable state of grief.
The family expressed appreciation for the prompt intervention of the Inspector-General of Police, but demanded a full and transparent investigation into the murder, identification and prosecution of all perpetrators and accomplices, and immediate release of Ikpanor’s remains for burial.
In addition, the family is calling on the National Human Rights Commission to do an independent inquiry and extend legal and psychological support to Ikpanor’s widow and three children.
The tragic killing has sparked outrage across social media, with activists and community leaders demanding justice and peace between ethnic communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt and southern regions.
(Editor: Okechukwu Eze)
