Roadside petrol seller in Akwa Ibom wanted by Police for setting student ablaze

A roadside petrol dealer has set fire to a student of AKwa Ibom State University (AKSU), Obio Akpa Campus, in Oruk Anam council area of the state, identified as Enwongo Akpan, after a minor argument.

The Guardian learnt that the victim who is a 200-level student in the Department of Philosophy at the University, bought N500 petrol from the roadside petrol seller but apparently adulterated, it failed to start his generator.

Unsatisfied with the quality of the product, the victim approached the roadside seller to complain and possibly get a refund but an argument ensued resulting in tough-talking.

An eyewitness who identified himself as Idongesit Akpan said, I’m the course of argument, the dealer collected the petrol, poured it on his victim and struck matches on him before he caught fire while others scampered for safety.

Akpan said the victim was rescued by villagers and students who alerted the Vice-Chancellor of the University Prof Nse Essien as he was rushed to Mercy Hospital in Abak for immediate treatment.

” The incident attracted the attention of community leaders such as former Chairman of OrukAnam Prince Ubong Idiong who prevailed on students to forestall reprisal action by students of the University.

” The victim was later transferred to another hospital in uyo for better treatment,” he said

Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Odiko Mcdon, said the suspect escaped from the scene of the crime before police arrived to arrest him.

“Yes, we are aware of the incident. But the suspect escaped from the scene. The Police are trailing the suspect now and he will soon be brought to book” he said.