A clash between Itsekiri youths of Ugborodo and neighbouring Ogidigben riverine Itsekiri communities in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, at the weekend, left one person dead and a house burnt.

The victim, Emiko Onuwaje, was reportedly attacked and killed along a road in Ogidigben, an incident that triggered outrage and heightened tension across the Ugborodo axis.

Hours after the killing, the residence of Capt. John Deja Okpeyor was set ablaze by angry youths. Okpeyor had earlier the same day been installed as a chief of the Warri Kingdom.

As of press time, details surrounding the incident remained sketchy. However, the killing and subsequent arson occurred amid reports of a youth leadership tussle in Ogidigben, which allegedly led to the mobilisation of youths to confront perceived opponents within the community.

Community sources, however, maintained that Onuwaje was not involved in any mobilisation or attack on any residence. They said he was assaulted and killed on the road by unknown assailants, describing the incident as a criminal act that should not be linked to wider community disputes.

Security presence was reportedly reinforced in parts of Ugborodo and Ogidigben to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

Efforts to reach the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, for comments were unsuccessful as calls and a text message sent to him were yet to be responded to. However, it was gathered that at least four suspects had been arrested in connection with the killing of Onuwaje. (The Nation)

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