The Akwa Ibom Polytechnic community was thrown into mourning on Wednesday as a final-year Computer Science student, identified as Prince, was shot dead by gunmen in his home in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area.
The attack, which occurred around 1 a.m. at Prince’s residence on Abuja Street, Ikot Osurua community, has left friends, family, and neighbors in shock. Prince, who was eagerly awaiting mobilisation for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), was fatally shot in the stomach while in the presence of his girlfriend.
According to witnesses, the gunmen broke into the compound and went straight to Prince’s room, as if they knew their target. His girlfriend, who was in the room at the time, raised the alarm, bringing neighbors rushing to the scene.
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Despite efforts to save him, Prince succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
A neighbor who spoke anonymously described Prince as a vibrant and well-loved figure in the community. “I saw him just hours before the incident. He was always cheerful and active in the church choir. It’s heartbreaking to lose him like this,” the neighbor said.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, confirmed the tragic incident. He linked the attack to a robbery and cult-related operation, saying, “Preliminary investigations suggest the assailants were involved in a robbery and cult activity in the area. The student was shot during the incident. We are working to bring those responsible to justice.”
The police have promised a thorough investigation, though the community remains shaken by the gruesome killing.