The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has launched an aggressive manhunt following a brazen attack by suspected sea pirates on its Marine Police Patrol Team along the Oron-Calabar waterways

According to a press release issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the attack occurred around 1:00 PM during a routine patrol. According to him, the heavily armed pirates, estimated to be 24 in number and dressed in military camouflage, ambushed the police team using three speedboats.

Despite being outnumbered, he said, the Marine Police engaged the assailants in a fierce gunfight. However, the attack resulted in injuries to two officers, Inspectors Sunday Usuyak and Edet Enenyi, while another officer, Inspector Udi Emenyi, remains missing.
According the Police Public Relation officer the Akwa Ibom Police Command has deployed a specialized search-and-rescue team to locate the missing officer and apprehend the attackers.
“The Nigerian Navy and other security agencies have been mobilized to support the operation.”

Commissioner of Police Baba Mohammed Azare, who visited the scene of the attack, assured residents of heightened patrols and improved security measures across the state’s waterways.

“Our waterways will not serve as a safe haven for criminals. We will bring these perpetrators to justice,” he declared, reiterating the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

The Police Command has called on residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information that could aid ongoing operations.

“We urge the public to support us with actionable intelligence as we continue our search for the missing officer and ensure the culprits are apprehended,” said DSP Timfon John.
The attack has heightened concerns among communities reliant on the Oron-Calabar waterways for transportation and trade.
However, the police have pledged to maintain open communication with residents and keep them informed of any developments.
This incident underscored the persistent challenges of maritime security in Nigeria’s coastal regions, where piracy and criminal activity continue to threaten lives and livelihoods.

As the search and security operation unfolds, the Akwa Ibom Police Command said it remains resolute in its mission to secure the state’s waterways and restore confidence in law enforcement.

In a bold move to reinvigorate governance, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has dissolved his cabinet, announcing plans to inject new talent into his administration. The decision, unveiled during a valedictory session at the Executive Council chamber in Uyo on Friday, signals the governor’s commitment to sustaining momentum under the “Arise Agenda.”

Governor Eno praised the outgoing commissioners for their contributions, emphasizing that the cabinet change was not a reflection of poor performance. “If changes were based on non-performance, none of the commissioners would be replaced. All of you have delivered,” he stated.
However, he noted the importance of transitioning to a new phase, adding, “We must conclude one season, begin another, and continue to move forward.”
The reshuffle affects commissioners, many of whom had served under former Governor Udom Emmanuel for eight years. The move underscores Eno’s vision to blend experience with fresh energy as he steers Akwa Ibom toward new horizons.

To honor the outgoing team, a valedictory dinner was scheduled for Friday evening at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo. As the state anticipates the announcement of new appointments, citizens are keenly watching for the next wave of leaders poised to shape Akwa Ibom’s future.

Governor Eno’s decisive action may be a strategic approach to governance to balance continuity and renewal in pursuit of a transformative agenda.

In a decisive move to address the root causes of insecurity in Akwa Ibom, the newly-appointed Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, has announced plans to crack down on sponsors of communal clashes and other crimes destabilizing the state.
During a courtesy visit to Governor Umo Eno at the Government House in Uyo, CP Azare disclosed that the police, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), had already begun profiling individuals suspected of funding and fueling communal unrest.
Police Public Relations Officer DSP Timfon John, in a statement quoted CP Azare to have assured that an interim report on their findings would be submitted soon.
The new Commissioner’s approach signals a shift in focus from reactive policing to intelligence-driven strategies aimed at dismantling networks responsible for violence, kidnappings, armed robbery, and homicide in the state.

CP Azare emphasized his commitment to youth engagement as a tool for conflict prevention and pledged to involve local communities in policing efforts to strengthen cooperation between security agencies and residents.

To enhance public trust and accessibility, CP Azare directed the command’s Public Relations Officer to make available contact numbers of senior police officers, ensuring the public can easily report security concerns.

Governor Umo Eno praised the Commissioner’s proactive strategies, particularly his emphasis on intelligence gathering and community engagement.
The Governor noted that CP Azare’s prior role as Deputy Commissioner, Operations in the state, had equipped him with vital knowledge of Akwa Ibom’s security landscape.
Governor Eno also highlighted the issue of vandalism of public facilities, such as transformers, which hampers rural development. He assured the Commissioner of the state government’s unwavering support to tackle such crimes and improve security infrastructure.
CP Azare’s appointment and early strategies have raised expectations of a more coordinated and effective fight against insecurity in Akwa Ibom. With plans to target crime sponsors and strengthen community policing, residents are hopeful for sustained peace and development under his leadership.