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One of the most shocking stories in Cross River State is that of Mr Charles Mkpang, a father of two and the only survivor out of four people shot by a police officer, Inspector Effiong Bassey, on 23rd March 2025 at the Atakpa Divisional Police Station near Watt Market in Calabar.
While three others died, Mr Mkpang lived — but now, he says he is barely surviving.
The Day That Changed His Life
According to Mkpang, he was not a criminal. He had done nothing wrong. But on that day, Inspector Bassey, who was said to be mentally unstable, opened fire and shot him and three others.
The bullet entered his body, damaged nerves and bones, and left him half-paralysed.
“I cannot lift my left hand or leg. I am living with pain every day,” he told journalists.
He now walks slowly, needs help to do simple things, and lives with a large hole in his mouth. “If I drink water or eat, it comes out through my nose,” he said.
What Has He Received So Far?
Mr Mkpang said he has received a few donations:
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₦400,000 from the wife of the Governor of Cross River State
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₦500,000 from popular activist VeryDarkMan
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₦50,000 from the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police
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₦100,000 from the same AIG the next day
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₦50,000 from a woman who said she was a police officer
That is a total of ₦1.1 million, but it is not enough. His medical bills are high. He said just one drug he uses costs ₦42,000 and lasts only a few days.
He also paid ₦18,000 per day for three weeks at a stroke centre after his first surgery.
Still Waiting for Help
Mkpang said he needs another surgery but cannot afford it. He also said that the Cross River State Government has not done anything concrete to help him — even though promises were made.
He said police officials tried to reach the government but got no result. “No government body has taken up responsibility for my treatment or rehabilitation,” he added.
"I Cannot Work. I Need Help"
Before the shooting, Mr Mkpang was a father, a provider, and an active man. But now, he is depending on the mercy of others to survive.
“I have two children. I cannot work. I need help from the government,” he cried.
Nigerians React
This story has raised many questions online:
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Why has the state government abandoned Mr Mkpang?
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Why did the Nigeria Police not cover all his medical bills?
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Will the shooter, Inspector Effiong Bassey, be punished?
Should This Be Happening in 2025?
Many Nigerians are asking why someone who was shot by a serving police officer — inside a police station — has not received proper care or compensation.
“If this can happen to Mr Mkpang, it can happen to anyone,” someone said online.
Over to You, Nigeria
The big question now is:
Should Mr Mkpang be left to suffer alone?
His life was turned upside down by a system that should have protected him.
If you believe people like Mr Mkpang deserve justice, support, and proper healthcare, share this story. Let the world know that one of us is crying for help.
🗨️ What Do You Think?
Do you think the government should step in and take full responsibility for Mr Mkpang’s treatment and life going forward?
Drop your comment below 👇 — let us hear your voice.
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