The Akwa Ibom State Police Command, has arrested one Ekere Sunday Ebong, a lawyer who was captured in a viral video on the internet assaulting his wife, Kufre Ebong.
In the video, which showed that the incident happened in the night, the 55-year-old lawyer was seen assaulting his wife who was half dressed. The suspect repeatedly hit his wife while demanding for keys, despite appeals from neighbours who cautioned him.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Odiko Macdon, said in a statement issued on Monday December 18th, said “In a video that went viral, the suspect assaulted his wife, dehumanised her, leading to various grievous injuries. He is a known habitual perpetrator of violent acts against his wife over the years.
“As an agency saddled with the protection of lives and property and maintenance of law and order, we cannot allow Barrister Ebong to continue this flagrant abuse of human rights. Hence, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olatoye Durosinmi, ordered the arrest of the suspect to prevent murder and breakdown of law and order.
“The CP has warned perpetrators of violent crimes in the state to desist forthwith while urging family members to endeavour to resolve disputes amicably rather than resorting to violent attacks.”
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, has condemned the assault on Mrs Kufre Ebong.
The group said it was unfortunate and disappointing that the incident happened a few days after the advocacy of gender-based violence.
NAWOJ Chairperson, Nsikak Okon, in a statement jointly signed by Secretary, Patience John, said “We commend members of the public, especially the neighbours, for exposing this act of brutish character and appeal for support towards the course of protecting women from such persons.”
