The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has arrested seven suspected cultists linked to the proscribed Ku Klux Klan confraternity after they allegedly attacked a student and were found in possession of a fresh human skull.

Victim Ambushed

According to Police PRO DSP Timfon John, the arrests followed a report on August 25, 2025, when a student of the Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, was ambushed by the gang after renouncing his membership of the cult.

• The victim was beaten unconscious.
• His Redmi 13C phone and ₦41,000 cash were stolen.

Items Recovered

Police said a raid on the suspects’ hideout led to the recovery of:

1. One locally made short gun
2. Seven live cartridges
3. A fresh human skull
4. A bottle of suspected black oil
5. A bottle of Guyanese oil, believed to be used for rituals.

Suspects Identified

The seven arrested suspects were named as:

1. Douglas Ambe Esikhene
2. Stephen Asukwo Effiong
3. Saviour Dany Akpan
4. Emmanuel Friday Umoh
5. Augustine Uduak Okon
6. Mary Ating Asukwo
7. Itohowo Christopher Uko

Ongoing Investigation

John confirmed that investigations have begun, with efforts underway to arrest other members of the gang and recover more items.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and other prominent leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have said the party’s forthcoming national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, can only hold peacefully if leadership positions remain open, inclusive, and competitive.

The resolution was reached at a closed-door meeting in Abuja, which began late Monday night and ended Tuesday morning.

Ortom Reads Communiqué

Former Benue governor Samuel Ortom read the group’s communiqué, warning that any attempt to exclude legitimate members or ignore court rulings could invalidate the convention.

> “A credible National Convention must be anchored on transparency, fairness, inclusivity, and respect for the rule of law,” Ortom said.
“Failure to comply shall render any purported convention invalid, as legitimate members would be disenfranchised.”

Demands by the Stakeholders

The group, calling themselves Eminent Leaders and Concerned Stakeholders of the PDP, issued several demands:

• Fresh congresses in Ebonyi and Anambra states, in line with court judgments.
• A new South-East zonal congress.
• Recognition of the South-South congress held in Calabar, which has court backing.
• Immediate congresses in Ekiti local governments, in obedience to court rulings.
• No micro-zoning of positions, with the National Chairman retained in the North-Central, per the 2021 zoning formula.

Call for Unity

The leaders said the PDP stood at a “defining crossroads” and urged inclusivity, fairness, and reconciliation to preserve the party’s relevance as Nigeria’s main opposition.

“Only then can the PDP speak with one voice, act with one heart, and march with renewed strength toward victory,” the communiqué added.

Attendees

Those present included Sam Anyanwu (National Secretary), Dan Orbih (South-South Vice Chairman), former governors Okezie Ikpeazu, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, and Ayodele Fayose, as well as ex-senator George Sekibo, Rivers Speaker, Sen. Philip Aduda, Hon. Micah Jiba, some BoT members, and state chairmen.

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday sent warm birthday wishes to Vice President Kashim Shettima as he turned 59, describing him as a loyal ally and dependable partner in Nigeria’s renewal journey.

In a personal message, Tinubu hailed Shettima’s courage, tenacity, and sense of duty, noting that his choice of Shettima as running mate had been repeatedly justified by his service and commitment.

“Today presents another unique opportunity to celebrate you, my brother, co-traveller, and Vice President, as you mark another birthday,” Tinubu said.

“Your courage, sense of duty, tenacity, determination, and belief in Nigeria’s greatness have remained unshaken. I deeply appreciate your vibrancy, loyalty, partnership, and support as my deputy.”

Tinubu on Choosing Shettima

The President recalled his decision to select Shettima as his running mate, saying it was based on competence and leadership qualities Nigerians could rely on.

“Every day, as Vice President, you have justified that choice by strengthening our work, bringing fresh perspectives, and upholding our commitment to Nigerians,” Tinubu said.

Record of Service

Tinubu praised Shettima’s political journey from Governor of Borno State to Senator, commending his leadership during difficult times. He described him as proof that “leadership is service, not privilege.”

Renewed Hope Agenda

The President highlighted Shettima’s role in advancing the Renewed Hope Agenda, citing joint efforts on food security, investment reforms, and global partnerships.

“Our partnership will continue to yield results that Nigerians can see and feel. We must keep working towards prosperity and better living standards for our people,” Tinubu noted.

Beyond Politics

Tinubu said his relationship with Shettima transcends politics, calling it a bridge across regions and traditions. He urged other leaders to emulate the Vice President’s example of putting Nigeria first.

The President wished Shettima strength, wisdom, and many more impactful years in service to Nigeria.