A roadside petrol dealer on Sunday set ablaze one Enwongo Akpan, a 200-level philosophy student of the institution, over a minor disagreement.
The incident was said to have happened in Udo Idiong Junction in Obio Okpa campus of the Akwa Ibom State University, Oruk Anam local government area of the state.
Daily Report learnt that trouble started when the student purchased fuel of N500 from the dealer, but later returned.
The victim was said to have returned the fuel to the deal over claims that it was adulterated.
According to the victim, he emptied the content into his generating set but the engine did not ignite.
According to an eyewitness, Idongesit Akpan, who spoke to newsmen on Monday, an argument ensued between both parties and the dealer reached out for the petrol gallon, poured the content on the victim and struck a match on him.
While he was in flames, others scampered for safety.
The victim was later rescued by the villagers and students who alerted the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Nse Essien.
The VC immediately gave an order for the victim to be rushed to Mercy Hospital in Abak, where he received treatment before being transferred to another hospital in Uyo, the state capital.
Akpan said, “The incident attracted 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.”
Odiko Macdon, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Akwa Ibom State Police command, while confirming the incident, said the Commissioner of Police, Olatoye Dorusinmi, has ordered investigation into the matter.
He further noted that the suspect would soon be arrested.
“Yes, we are aware of the incident. But the suspect escaped from the scene. Police are trailing the suspect now and he will soon be brought to book,” he said.
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