Tension erupted at the Fruit Market in the Oil Mill, Rumuokwurusi axis of Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, on Friday as a wheelbarrow pusher, identified as Zakara Afaaruwu, allegedly stabbed a trader, Higightor Wenem, to death.

According to traders who witnessed the incident, the wheelbarrow pusher had obstructed a section of the market.

In an attempt to create more space for traders to display their goods, Afaaruwu was asked to remove his wheelbarrow, which reportedly led to an argument.

They said the victim was immediately rushed to the Military Hospital for medical attention but was confirmed dead by the attending medical doctor.

The incident reportedly sparked tension between members of the Hausa community in the market and other traders.

The Police Public Relations Officer in Rivers State, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, who confirmed the incident in a statement on Saturday, said the suspect has been arrested and is currently in police custody while investigations continue.

She added that the deceased’s body has been deposited at the morgue for autopsy.

She said:

“The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed a murder incident that occurred today, Saturday, 14th February, 2026, at about 7:00 a.m. 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 attending medical doctor. His corpse has been deposited at the morgue for autopsy.

“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 investigations continue.

“The situation is now under control, and monitoring of the area is ongoing. Further developments will be communicated.

“The Command assures members of the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state and urges residents to remain calm and law-abiding.” (Weekend Trust)

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