Tenants and neighbours of landlord Obong Ete in Calabar South, Cross River State, took the law into their own hands on Sunday, brutally beating him over allegations of theft.
The landlord, in his 30s, was accused of terrorizing his tenants and stealing their belongings, including food items and household valuables, according to TRIBUNE ONLINE.
Residents reported that Obong Ete’s behaviour had become a persistent issue, with numerous attempts to reform him failing.
“He has been doing this for a long time, and it’s satisfying to see him finally face public disgrace.
“Many times, youth leaders and vigilante groups have traced stolen items back to his apartment and confronted him,” said resident John Akpan.
As the tenants and neighbours prepared for Sunday worship, they confronted Obong Ete and subjected him to a severe beating with horse whips, canes, and planks.
After the assault, the youth leaders forced him to swear an oath promising to cease his stealing and harassment.
Battered and bruised, Obong Ete apologized for his actions and vowed to change his ways. He agreed that if he ever stole again, his neighbours were entitled to impose any punishment they deemed appropriate.
The youth leaders also suspected a young man living with Obong Ete of being an accomplice and expelled him from the landlord’s apartment, warning him never to return to the community.
Police Public Relations Officer Irene Ugbo condemned the brutalization of Obong Ete, urging that such matters should always be reported to the police.
