Man Sentenced to Life for Kidnapping Judge in Akwa Ibom

Nkereuwem Felix Effiong, aged 30, was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Federal High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, for his involvement in the kidnapping of Hon. Justice Joi Unwana on December 18, 2023.

Alongside his accomplice, Idorenyin Ekanem, Effiong abducted the judge at 8 PM along the Okobo Esuk Inwang Ndon Ebom road. During the operation, Ekanem was shot dead, while the judge's driver was held captive for five days.

Effiong, a native of Ikot Ekwer in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, was convicted on multiple counts, including conspiracy and membership in a terrorist group under the Terrorism Prevention Prohibition Act of 2022. He pleaded guilty to four counts, although the court entered a not guilty plea on his behalf for one count.

Effiong admitted to participating in three kidnapping operations, receiving a total of N25 million in ransom for the judge's release. He was arrested on July 4, 2024, following an investigation by the State Security Service.