A wave of grief and outrage has swept across Delta State following the tragic death of a rising young media personality, Marcus Samuel Dafe, who was reportedly murdered earlier today, June 4, in Abraka. His untimely demise has intensified calls for urgent action to address the growing insecurity plaguing the region.
Just two days prior, on June 2, Marcus had stood side by side with fellow youths in a bold protest against the alarming rise in kidnappings and killings within Delta State. The demonstration reflected a collective frustration and desperation among residents who have witnessed a surge in violent crimes across their communities.
In a cruel twist of fate, the same menace he protested against has now claimed his life. Preliminary reports suggest he was killed by suspected kidnappers, sparking fresh outrage and underscoring the very dangers he courageously spoke out against.
Adding a heartbreaking layer to the tragedy, Marcus’s final words were shared via a Facebook post just moments before his death — a chilling reminder of how fleeting life can be, and how real the threat has become for everyday citizens in the state.
The State Police Command is yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
The killing of Marcus Samuel Dafe has become a stark symbol of the deteriorating security situation in Delta State, reigniting calls from citizens and advocacy groups for swift and decisive government intervention.
IREPORT247NEWS had reported that the residents of the Abraka community and Delta State University (DELSU) students launched daily mass protests and issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Commissioner of Police in Delta State to urgently address the worsening insecurity.
In a joint expression of anger and despair, both residents and students described the scale of violence and insecurity affecting the community.
The protests began shortly after a shocking incident on May 25, when a student of DELSU, Clinton Udomudo, and his brother were abducted. According to community sources, the two had gone to deliver ransom money to kidnappers when they were both seized—an event that has become a symbol of the deepening security crisis.
Wielding placards with bold inscriptions such as “No to kidnapping in Abraka,” “We are tired of the insecurity in Abraka,” “The police should come to our rescue,” and “Delta State government should protect citizens; it is our right,” demonstrators have been taking to the streets daily. These messages reflect growing public anger and a sense of abandonment by security agencies.
Residents lamented that the police have done practically nothing to stop the activities of the criminals terrorizing the community. Many accused law enforcement of issuing empty promises rather than delivering tangible results. “We have repeatedly cried out to authorities, but our appeals have fallen on deaf ears,” said one protester. “Our lives no longer feel safe in our own town.”
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