Army Confirms Ongoing Probe of alleged killing of 13-year-old by soldier in Ikot Abasi

The Nigerian Army has confirmed that it has commenced an investigation into the death of a 13-year-old boy allegedly shot by a soldier attached to Sterling Petrochemical and Fertiliser Limited in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of January 1, 2026, along Akongntekong Road, Ete, sparked outrage and tension within the community.

Confirming the development, the Army Public Relations Officer, 2 Brigade, Mbiokporo, Captain Lawal Mohamed, said the matter had been taken over by the Military Police.

“The incident has been handled by the Military Police and is already under investigation. Due process would be followed”. He assured

Eyewitness accounts indicate that the victim, Timothy Daniel, was returning from a crossover service at Mount Zion Full Gospel Church with his 15-year-old sister, Miracle Daniel, when the incident occurred at about 12:05 a.m.

An eyewitness, Mr. Anthony Akpan, told Daily Independent that Miracle had briefly crossed the road when the soldier who was on guard duty at the residence of the late former clan head, HRH Barr. Clement Idemudo, where expatriates reportedly reside, allegedly followed her and made inappropriate advances.

According to Akpan, when the girl resisted and protested, the soldier allegedly became aggressive and threatened her. Timothy, who was waiting nearby, reportedly confronted the soldier over the alleged harassment of his sister, leading to a heated exchange.

The confrontation allegedly escalated, culminating in the soldier firing his rifle and hitting the teenager. Timothy was said to have died on the spot, after which the soldier reportedly retreated into the compound while other security personnel later removed the body.

“The shooting triggered panic and unrest in the area, disrupting New Year celebrations. Even a vehicle belonging to a former political adviser to the Ikot Abasi Local Government Chairman, Obong Uyai Udoiwod, was damaged during the ensuing commotion” he said

Reacting, the Ukpum Ete Clan Union (Mboho Ukpum Ete), through its Publicity Secretary, Engr. Patrick Udoma, condemned the killing, describing it as unprofessional and unacceptable.

“The President General of Mboho Ukpum Ete expresses deep dissatisfaction over the conduct of the soldier attached to Sterling Petrochemical, whose actions resulted in the death of an innocent citizen, This act is perceived as terrorism and is totally unacceptable to the people of Ukpum Ete clan.” He said

The group called on relevant authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and justice for the victim.