Tension has gripped the Obio/Akpor area of Rivers State following the sealing of a popular market after a trader was reportedly stabbed to death during a fight over just ₦500.
The incident occurred on Sunday at the Obio/Akpor International Market, popularly called Amaechi Market, located along SARS Road. Eyewitnesses said the victim, identified simply as Ejike, was attacked by a group of meat sellers allegedly from the North after a heated argument turned violent.
According to traders at the scene, more than 20 men descended on Ejike, stabbing him repeatedly with daggers. A good Samaritan who attempted to rescue him was also stabbed in the ribs and is currently battling for his life in the hospital.
Protest and Panic Among Traders
Outraged by the killing, market women took to the streets on Monday, storming the Obio/Akpor Local Government Secretariat to demand justice and protection.
“We don’t feel safe anymore,” one of the protesting traders lamented. “These people are too violent. They killed Ejike because of ₦500 and stabbed another man who tried to help. They even sell drugs behind the market.”
The traders called on the local government and security agencies to evict the group allegedly responsible for the violence, claiming they were behind several incidents of theft and vandalism within the market.
Authorities Respond
The market chairman, C.P. Oburu, confirmed the incident, saying he was informed while in church and rushed to the scene, only to find the victim lifeless.
“When we took him to the hospital, the doctor confirmed him dead. The police later took the body to the mortuary,” he said.
He added that the local government authorities and the police immediately sealed the market and deployed security operatives to prevent further unrest.
“The council chairman has promised to ensure that those behind the killing are arrested. For now, the market is sealed until peace is restored,” Oburu stated.
Police Launch Investigation
The spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident. She said one person died while others sustained injuries, assuring that an investigation is ongoing.
“The Commissioner of Police has deployed tactical teams to cordon off the area and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice,” she said.
As calm slowly returns to the area, many traders remain fearful, demanding tighter security before the market can reopen. For now, the once-bustling Amaechi Market remains sealed — a stark reminder of how a minor dispute spiraled into deadly violence.
