Cross River Police have arrested a 23-year-old man in Ugep after he allegedly attacked and killed his father, prompting renewed calls against jungle justice.
The Cross River State Police Command has taken a 23-year-old man into custody following the killing of his father in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, an incident that has shocked residents and reignited public debate on drug abuse and mob violence.
The suspect, identified as Bassey Ubi, was arrested after an early-morning confrontation at his family home located around the O-3 Palace area of Usaja community in Ikpakapit Ward.
The tragic event occurred on Sunday, February 1, 2026, shortly after the deceased returned from a church service.
According to information obtained by the Cross River Police, the young man allegedly attacked his father with a machete inside their residence.
The injury sustained during the assault proved fatal, leaving family members and neighbours in deep distress.
Residents who rushed to the scene reportedly attempted to take the law into their own hands, accusing the suspect of committing an unforgivable act.
The situation quickly escalated as an angry crowd descended on him, inflicting injuries in what nearly turned into a case of jungle justice before police officers arrived.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Cross River Command, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said timely intervention by security operatives prevented the suspect from being lynched by the mob.
He explained that officers immediately secured the area and moved the suspect away from the scene to avoid further violence.
ASP Eitokpah disclosed that preliminary findings indicated the suspect may have been under the influence of illegal substances at the time of the incident.
He noted that while investigations were still ongoing, drug abuse was being considered a major factor that could have influenced the suspect’s actions.
“The unfortunate incident happened in the early hours of the day,” the police spokesperson said.
“The suspect is 23 years old, and information available to us suggests he may have a history of drug abuse. However, full investigations will determine the exact circumstances.”
He further explained that the deceased’s family had already taken the body to the morgue in Ugep before police officers completed preliminary documentation at the scene.
Meanwhile, the suspect was taken for medical treatment due to injuries sustained during the mob attack and later placed in detention for questioning.
The Cross River Police Command stated that the case would be thoroughly investigated, after which the suspect would be charged to court in line with existing laws.
Authorities stressed that justice would be pursued through proper legal channels.
Beyond the immediate tragedy, the incident has drawn attention to broader social concerns in Cross River, particularly the rising cases of drug abuse among youths and the persistent problem of jungle justice in some communities.
ASP Eitokpah used the opportunity to issue a strong warning against mob actions, emphasizing that jungle justice remains a criminal offense regardless of the circumstances.
He urged residents of Yakurr Local Government and the state at large to always report suspected crimes to the police rather than resorting to violence.
“The Cross River Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Rashid Afegbua, does not support jungle justice in any form,” he said.
“Anyone found participating in such acts will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.”
Community leaders in Ugep have also expressed concern over the incident, calling for increased awareness campaigns on mental health, substance abuse, and peaceful conflict resolution.
Some residents described the killing as a painful reminder of how unchecked drug addiction can destroy families and destabilize communities.
Security analysts say the incident underscores the need for closer collaboration between families, religious institutions, community leaders, and law enforcement agencies to identify early warning signs and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As investigations continue, the Cross River Police have assured the public that updates will be provided and that justice will be served transparently.
The command also reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and maintaining order across Cross River State.
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