Cris!s In Port-Harcourt Market, One K!lled As Benue, Hausa Traders Clash
Crisis In Port-Harcourt Market, One Killed As Benue, Hausa Traders Clash
The altercation reportedly began when a trader asked a wheelbarrow pusher to make space for his goods.
Atrader has been killed following a dispute at a fruit market in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, prompting tension between members of the Benue and Hausa communities in the area.
The incident occurred at about 7am on Saturday at the Fruit Market in Oil Mill, Rumuokwurusi, in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
The altercation reportedly began when a trader asked a wheelbarrow pusher to make space for his goods.
According to eyewitness accounts, the wheelbarrow pusher, identified as Zakara Afaaruwu, allegedly refused the request, leading to an argument that drew the attention of other traders and passers-by.
The disagreement later escalated into violence, PUNCH reports.
The police said the wheelbarrow pusher allegedly stabbed the trader during the confrontation.
The victim was rushed to hospital but was confirmed dead by a medical doctor.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the development in a statement issued in Port-Harcourt on Saturday by its spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko.
She said, “The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed a murder incident that occurred today, Saturday, 14th February, 2026, at about 7am at the Fruit Market, Oil Mill, Rumuokwurusi, Port Harcourt.
“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.”
The police said the corpse had been deposited in the morgue for autopsy, adding that the incident triggered tension in the area.
Iringe-Koko stated, “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 investigation continues.
“The situation is now under control, and monitoring of the area is ongoing. Further developments will be communicated.”
The command assured residents of its commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state and urged members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding.
