Evidence before the court showed that the faction associated with the defendants eventually gained dominance in the village.
They assumed control of the administration and unilaterally determined how palm fruits would be harvested. To consolidate their authority, they hired security guards from Ikot Itie Udung, a neighbouring community.
The guards, placed under the supervision of the third convict, Ubong Udo Okpon, were reportedly paid ₦25,000 monthly.
The defendants’ extrajudicial statements, admitted in evidence as Exhibits 3 and 5 without objection, confirmed these arrangements.