A horrific attack unfolded in the early hours of Thursday, May 15, 2025, when unknown gunmen invaded No. 24 Mbora Street in the Etta Agbor area of Calabar and set ablaze the home of a family of three.
The victims — Mr. Simon Ihiasonwu, his wife Mrs. Angelina Ihiasonwu, and their daughter Miss Goodness Ihiasonwu were reportedly inside the building when the assailants struck between 2:00 a.m. and 3:00 a.m.
According to residents, the attackers arrived silently but soon unleashed chaos, firing several gunshots into the air before dousing the house with petrol and setting it on fire. Neighbors who attempted to rush out for help were forced back by the continuous gunfire.
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By the time emergency responders reached the scene, the building had been completely consumed by flames. The charred remains of the structure stand as a grim reminder of the night’s brutality.
The Cross River State Police Command has launched a full investigation, describing the act as “inhumane and deeply troubling.” Authorities have assured the public that efforts are underway to track down the perpetrators and uncover the motive behind the attack.
The Etta Agbor community has been thrown into mourning, with residents expressing fear over the rising spate of violent crimes in Calabar. Many described the Ihiasonwu family as peaceful, hardworking, and well-loved in the neighborhood.
One of the relatives who stand anonymous told the reporter that the attack is for Ihiasonwu Kingsley Uchechi dissident who’s report missing on September 26th 2024, after their home was raided when their community keep getting attacked over the years and he is the only person raising objections.
As investigations continue, community leaders are calling for increased security patrols and government intervention to prevent further tragedies.