A tragic event has shaken the quiet community of Ikot Oku Usung village in Akwa Ibom State. A 45-year-old man, Udeme Sunday Uko, lost his life after being shot while sleeping with his wife and children inside a church.

The incident happened in the early hours of Monday, August 4, 2025. His wife, Mfon Udeme Sunday, quickly informed the youth chairman of Ukanafun, Godwin Emekan Ben, who then took the matter to the local police.

Confirming the incident, the police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, released a statement two days later. He said a team of officers had recovered a locally made pistol and an empty bullet shell from the scene.

According to the police report, the shooting occurred around 12:10 a.m. while the family was asleep in the church. Mr. Uko was found shot in the head. Investigators are yet to confirm if it was a planned murder or possibly a suicide.

The police were alerted by concerned residents who heard the news from the deceased’s wife. Officers quickly arrived at the scene to begin their investigation.

A homemade pistol was found and taken as evidence. Mr. Uko’s body has been taken to the mortuary for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.

Akwa Ibom Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has ordered a thorough investigation. He promised the public that the case will be taken seriously and that those responsible will face justice.

Police say the investigation is ongoing, and more updates will be shared with the public as soon as they are available.