Police in Akwa Ibom State have arrested a traditional ruler for allegedly attempting to murder his sister during a family dispute.
Gatekeepers News reports that the State Police Command confirmed the arrest in a statement on Tuesday by its spokesperson, Timfon John.
According to the statement, the suspect, Chief Friday Jonah Umoren, village head of Ibagwa in Abak Local Government Area, was accused of shooting his 32-year-old sister, Unwana Effiong Friday Inyang, in the head.
“On Saturday, September 6, 2025, at about 2:30 p.m., operatives of the Command received a report of an attempted murder,” the police said.
The report was filed by a member of the family, who alleged that the village head attacked their sister during a quarrel.
Police operatives immediately responded, arrested the suspect, and recovered a long, single-barrel gun believed to have been used in the assault.
The victim was rushed to a hospital, where she is said to be in stable condition.
John said preliminary investigations revealed that the incident stemmed from a quarrel over ownership of a palm fruit plantation.
“The victim was immediately taken to hospital, where she is currently receiving treatment. Preliminary investigations suggest the incident was the result of a misunderstanding over palm fruits,” she added.
The police spokesperson noted that the case is under investigation and the suspect remains in custody.
