A disagreement between a trader and a wheelbarrow operator at a fruit market in Oil Mill, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, turned fatal on Saturday, igniting a clash between members of the Benue and Hausa communities.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours at the Fruit Market in Rumuokwurusi, Port Harcourt, was said to have started over space in the busy market.
Sources disclosed that a trader had requested a wheelbarrow pusher, identified as Zakara Afaaruwu, to move his barrow to allow room for his goods.
The request allegedly sparked a quarrel after it was declined, drawing the attention of other traders and residents in the vicinity.
The altercation reportedly escalated when the wheelbarrow operator allegedly brought out a sharp object and stabbed the trader during the fracas.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the development in a statement issued on Saturday by its spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko.
According to the police, the victim was immediately taken to the Military Hospital for treatment but was certified dead by a medical doctor.
The deceased was identified as Higightor Wenem, 30, a native of Mbagel Village in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State.
The Police said the killing heightened tension in the area, resulting in a clash between members of the Benue and Hausa communities and causing panic within the market.
However, security operatives were said to have moved swiftly to restore order and forestall further violence.
The suspect has since been apprehended and is in police custody, while the remains of the victim have been deposited in a morgue pending autopsy.
The command assured residents that the situation had been brought under control and pledged continued surveillance to maintain peace, urging the public to remain calm and law-abiding.
