Shock and Grief as Gunmen Slay Church General Overseer and Pastor in Akwa Ibom

Gunmen have struck the Mount of Solution Redeemed Church (MSRC) in Akwa Ibom state, claiming the lives of its founder, Apostle Elisha Asuquo, and the church's pastor, Aniekan Ibanga. The assailants, who remain unidentified, attacked the church's National Headquarters during a Parish meeting, leaving the community of Ikot Ekang in Abak Local Government Area in shock.

Eyewitnesses reported that the gunmen arrived on a motorcycle, swiftly carried out the deadly attack, and fled via the Abak-Ikot Ekpene Federal Highway. Apostle Asuquo, from Adiasim in Essien Udim Local Government Area, was handling a sensitive marital reconciliation matter before the tragic incident occurred.

Community leaders, including Bishop John Jeremiah Kpongkpong, expressed disbelief at the unprecedented violence, highlighting the need for a thorough investigation. The police have launched a manhunt for the perpetrators, with assurances from the state police command of imminent arrests and prosecutions.

The affected villages, Ikot Obio Ikpa and Ikot Ekang, have joined forces to seek justice for the slain clerics, emphasizing cooperation and support for the ongoing investigation. The Village Heads and youth representatives of both communities have called for unity and vigilance to prevent future occurrences of such heinous crimes.