The Chairman of Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, Yibala Igiri Inyang, has clarified that he has not set up any panel to probe the recent cult-related violence in Ugep town, where a woman and her daughter were struck by stray bullets.
Inyang said the clarification became necessary to correct misleading reports in the media suggesting that he had inaugurated an investigative panel. According to him, such a move would have been publicly announced with the names of members clearly stated.
Trouble erupted on 25 September 2025 when members of the Bagga confraternity reportedly clashed violently, firing shots indiscriminately in public spaces. Tragically, a woman and her daughter were hit by bullets during the incident, sparking outrage in the community.
The council boss explained that security agencies were already handling the matter. “I have reported the incident to the security authorities in the state. The DSS and Police are carrying out investigations as we speak,” he said.
He stressed that his statement was misinterpreted. “I was wrongly quoted by the media. I did not set up any panel to investigate the incident. It is the duty of the security agencies to do that,” he maintained.
Inyang, who described himself as a trained security officer, emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation and assured that further steps would be taken once official findings were made available.
Reacting, former presidential aide, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, whose community was affected, described the killings and violence as alarming.
He said petitions had already been sent to the Inspector General of Police, the DSS, and other relevant authorities for urgent intervention.
Confirming developments, Deputy Police PRO in the state, Igri Ewa, said, “Petitions routed to Police heads are documented and referred for investigation. The outcome of such investigations is always made public,” he assured.
Ugep unrest: I haven’t inaugurated investigative panel – Council Chair, Inyang