Landlord Beaten by Tenants, Neighbors for Alleged Theft

A landlord identified as Obong Ete was severely beaten by his tenants and neighbors on Sunday morning, following accusations of theft in the Waddel Street area of Calabar South.

Witnesses report that the incident unfolded just before residents were preparing to leave for Sunday worship. Frustrated tenants and neighbors allegedly took matters into their own hands, wielding horse whips, canes, and wooden planks to punish the landlord for his alleged criminal behavior.

Residents claim that Ete, a bachelor in his 30s, has a history of terrorizing the neighborhood, particularly at night. According to John Akpan, a local resident, Ete has repeatedly stolen food items and household goods, creating a climate of fear among the community.

“He has been doing this for a long time. It is good that he is again publicly disgraced. He doesn’t want to repent. Many times, youth leaders and vigilante groups have traced stolen items to his apartment and beaten him up,” Akpan stated.

Magdalene Effiom, one of Ete’s tenants, added that there were rumors of Ete previously stealing from a church, which led to curses being placed upon him by worshippers. “Perhaps these curses are affecting him,” she suggested, noting that other neighbors had also been victims of his alleged burglaries.

After the brutal confrontation, local youth leaders, who have previously reported Ete to the divisional police officer at the Mbukpa station, compelled him to swear an oath to cease his thefts and to refrain from intimidating his tenants and neighbors in the future. In a moment of contrition, Ete admitted to his wrongdoings, stating, “I am sorry for stealing. I swear that I will not continue to steal again.”

Ete agreed that if he were to steal again, the community would be justified in taking further action against him. Additionally, suspicions arose regarding a young man living with Ete, who was believed to be an accomplice. The community insisted he leave Ete’s residence, warning him not to return or face legal consequences.

In response to the incident, Police PRO Irene Ugbo condemned the vigilante actions taken by the community, urging residents to report such cases to the police instead of resorting to violence.