The Cross River State Police Command has arrested a suspect, Adeshina Gilbert, in connection with the gruesome mob killing of a commercial driver from Benue State, Mr. Agege Ternenge.
Ternenge, who hailed from Mbanyam in Mbatyough Council Ward of Vandeikya Local Government Area, was reportedly stoned to death on July 18 in Obudu while delivering a waybill.
The arrest of the 35-year-old suspect from Abonkib community in Obudu Urban was confirmed by the Chairman of Vandeikya LGA, Hon. Dennis Guda. He stated that the arrest followed a directive from the Cross River State Commissioner of Police, Rashid Afegba, who ordered a full manhunt for all those involved in the killing.
A disturbing video showing the moment Ternenge was attacked has been circulating on social media, drawing widespread outrage and calls for justice across Nigeria.
Speaking to journalists in Calabar, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Irene Ugbo, described the act as barbaric and inhumane. She assured the public that the police will ensure all those involved face the full weight of the law.
Reacting to the arrest, Chairman Guda commended the swift action of the police and called for continued efforts to arrest other suspects still at large. He urged the people of Vandeikya to remain calm and trust the justice system.
“Mob justice is unlawful and dangerous,” Guda said. “We must allow the security agencies to do their work and ensure peaceful coexistence among communities.”
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, as security agencies intensify efforts to bring all perpetrators to justice.