Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – A violent clash at a fruit market in Rivers State leaves one trader dead and triggers tension between members of the Benue and Hausa communities, prompting swift police intervention.
The incident occurred early Saturday morning at the Oil Mill Fruit Market in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, police say.
According to a statement issued by the state police command in Port Harcourt on Saturday, the altercation begins when a trader asks a wheelbarrow pusher to clear space for goods display. The request is reportedly refused, escalating into a heated argument that draws attention from other traders.
Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko, a Chief Superintendent of Police, says the disagreement turns violent when the wheelbarrow pusher allegedly produces a knife and stabs the trader.
“Preliminary investigation reveals that the trader, identified as Higightor Wenem, aged 30, was stabbed during the disagreement,” Iringe-Koko says.
The victim, from Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State, is rushed to the Military Hospital but is confirmed dead by a doctor.
Police say the killing sparks panic and tension between Hausa and Benue residents in the area, raising fears of a wider breakdown of law and order.
“Prompt intervention by police operatives restores calm and prevents further escalation,” the statement says.
The suspect, identified as Zakara Afaaruwu, is arrested and remains in police custody as investigations continue. The victim’s body is deposited in the morgue for autopsy.
The Rivers State Police Command assures residents of its commitment to peace and urges the public to remain calm and law-abiding as monitoring continues.
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