DAILY POST gathered that they were killed shortly after a peace accord was signed on Saturday, February 16th.
An eyewitness, who pleaded for anonymity, alleged that the victims were shot dead after an exchange of gun battle between members of All Progressive Congress (APC) and People Democratic Party (PDP) after the signing of the peace accord.
He said that apart from those who lost their lives in the gun duel, several others who sustained bullets wounds were said to be receiving treatment at General Hospital in Ikom and other health facilities in the area.
“The misfortune happened on Saturday after the leaders of the community finished signing a peace accord with leaders of PDP and APC to ensure violent free election,” the source said.
Speaking on the issue, the Special Adviser to Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State on Cocoa Development Dr. Oscar Ofuka, an indigene of the area lamented the clash explaining that problem broke out when leaders of thought in APC and PDP concluded signing a peace accord for peace to reign in the area because of skirmishes which often broke out as a result of political differences in the area.
“Dissatisfied with the development, members of APC who were armed with guns and machetes opened fire on armless PDP supporters and villagers. Right now, the people of Bendeghe Ekiem are leaving in fear and require urgent security attention to protect lives and properties” he stated.
Oscar, who spoke in an emotion-laden voice, said that he only managed to escape death by whiskers. “I escaped death while trying to restore peace in my community. Glory be to God. Among the dead was Mr. Ayuk Ogar (PDP) Ward Chairman of Bendeghe Ekiem” he said.
However, when contacted on phone on Sunday, the Cross River State Police Public Relations Officer, Police PPRO, Irene Ugbo said, “Actually the incident occurred in the area and it was cult related clashes.”
She, however, denied that four or more died but confirmed that only three persons were reported dead during the incident.
“We have arrested some suspects and they would be charge to court after investigations. We are still going after others,” she stated.
