The Akwa Ibom State Government has suspended Chief Monday Esu, the Village Head of Ikot Umo Essien in Essien Udim Local Government Area, over allegations of terrorism and criminal activity.

The suspension was announced Wednesday by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Frank Archibong, who said the six-month measure will allow authorities to carry out a full investigation into the claims against Esu.

The allegations include sponsoring the destruction and theft of property at newly constructed blocks of shops in the Ikot Ekpenyong community market. Reports indicate that hoodlums, allegedly from Ikot Umo Essien, attacked the market, demolishing and looting the shops, which had been a constituency project initiated by former Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency representative, Mr Nsikak Ekong, in February 2024.

The attackers also destroyed a Fadama-sponsored borehole and VIP lavatory, taking items such as aluminium roofing sheets, windows, doors, overhead tanks, a water pump, and a generator. Residents in the area were reportedly left fearful by the incident.

Preliminary investigations have reportedly identified Chief Esu as the main suspect. He has been instructed to hand over all government property in his possession to the village council secretary.