Akwa Ibom govt orders arrest of lawyer for allegedly beating wife

The Akwa Ibom State government has ordered the arrest of an Uyo- based lawyer identified as Mr Ekere Ebong, who allegedly beat his wife to stupor antepenultimate night.

A press release signed by Ekerete Udo, chief press secretary to Gov Umo Eno, said the governor “has seen seen the video currently circulating on the social media platforms of a despicable act of violence and spousal abuse inflicted by a certain Ekere Ebong on his wife.”

The release said the government and people of Akwa Ibom State, “condemn this grave act of gender-based violence in the strongest possible term. Government will assist the lady who was so dehumanized by a man who otherwise should be the one to protect her and ensure that justice is served in line with the provisions of the law against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).”

“It is heartwarming to note that, an order for the arrest of the culprit given last night, has been successfully executed. Mr. Ebong, was arrested this morning and is currently in custody of the police and would be charged to court soon

“Government has zero-tolerance for gender-based violence and indeed any other form of violence.

“We call on the Nigerian Bar Association, ( NBA) to also institute disciplinary measures to punish Mr. Ebong, whose conduct, as a lawyer, is against the values and ethics of the noble profession.

“We wish to assure the public that, Mr. Ebong’s outrageous and egregious display of violence is totally alien to our culture and he will face the full wrath of the law.” The release said.

Mr Ebong while speaking with our correspodent, had lamented the turn of event even as he admitted that he had a problem with his wife but that they had settled their issues.

Unconfirmed reports on the net also have it that his wife had withdrawn a petition she earlier filed against him on rhe matter, claiming they had settled their quarrels.

If found guilty, Mr Ebong risks a jail term of three years or a fine of N200,000 only or both, being penalty for pleading guilty to spousal battery according Akwa Ibom State law.on the matter.