There was tension in Port Harcourt on Sunday following the gruesome killing of a butcher during a violent clash between rival traders at the Obio/Akpor International Market, popularly known as Amaechi Market.
The incident, which occurred around 11 a.m. at the busy market along Celestine Omehia Road in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, reportedly stemmed from a disagreement over ₦500.
Eyewitnesses said the altercation escalated when a group of Hausa meat sellers allegedly attacked one of their colleagues, identified as Ejike Enyadike, stabbing him multiple times with daggers.
Ejike, who hailed from the South-East, was confirmed dead at the Rukpokwu Primary Health Centre, while another victim from Akwa Ibom State, who tried to intervene, sustained deep stab wounds to the ribs and is said to be in critical condition.
A trader in the market, who identified himself as Mr. Amaechi, described the attack as unprovoked, saying the assailants numbered over twenty. “They descended on Ejike with knives. When his friend tried to stop them, they stabbed him too. Everyone ran for safety,” he said.
The Market Chairman, Mr. C.P. Oburu, confirmed the death, adding that the market has been sealed off by the Obio/Akpor Local Government Council to forestall reprisal attacks and maintain order.
Efforts to reach the council chairman, Dr. Gift Worlu, were unsuccessful as calls and messages to his phone were not returned.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the incident.
Police spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said one person was killed, adding that tactical teams have been deployed to restore calm and prevent further violence.
She said: “The victim was stabbed by unidentified persons.
The Commissioner of Police has ordered the deployment of tactical units to cordon off the market and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to book. Investigation is ongoing.”
As of Monday morning, the market remained under police watch, while traders expressed fear of possible reprisals.