A clash between some Benue and Hausa people at a fruit market in Oil Mill, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, on Saturday resulted in one fatality.
A wheelbarrow pusher named Zakara Afaaruwu was asked by a market trader to create room for him to keep his wares, but the vendor refused, which sparked trouble.
The two got into an argument right away, which drew the attention of other local traders and residents.
When the wheelbarrow pusher allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed the trader, the argument became heated.
The trader was taken to the hospital but was confirmed dead by a physician, according to a statement released by the police in Port Harcourt on Saturday afternoon.
“The development immediately sparked a clash between members of the Benue and Hausa communities in the area,” said Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the state Police Command.
“The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed a murder incident that occurred today, Saturday, 14th February, 2026, at about 7:00 a.m. at the Fruit Market, Oil Mill, Rumuokwurusi, Port Harcourt,” stated Superintendent of Police Iringe-Koko in the statement.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that a trader at the market, while attempting to create more space for his goods, requested a wheelbarrow pusher identified as Zakara Afaaruwu ‘m’ to remove his wheelbarrow, which was obstructing the area. The request was refused, and an argument ensued.
“In the course of the disagreement, the wheelbarrow pusher allegedly stabbed the trader, identified as Higightor Wenem ‘m,’ aged 30 years, from Mbagel Village, Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State, with a dagger.
“The victim was immediately rushed to the Military Hospital for medical attention but was confirmed dead by the medical doctor.”
While mentioning that the corpse of the victim had been deposited in the morgue for autopsy, the police spokesperson said the incident resulted in pandemonium.
The statement further read, “The incident led to tension and pandemonium between members of the Hausa and Benue communities in the area. However, prompt intervention by police operatives restored calm and prevented further breakdown of law and order.
“The suspect has been arrested and is currently in police custody while the investigation continues.
“The situation is now under control, and monitoring of the area is ongoing. Further developments will be communicated.”
In addition to urging citizens to keep calm and obey the law, the state police command reassured the public of its dedication to preserving peace and security throughout the state.
