Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have arrested a wheelbarrow pusher, Zakara Afaaruwu, following the tragic death of a trader at the Oil Mill Market in Rumuokwurusi, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The incident, which occurred on the morning of Saturday, February 14, 2026, has sent shockwaves across local communities, highlighting the challenges of maintaining order in busy market environments.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, the conflict began as a minor disagreement over space allocation within the market.
Higightor Wenem, a 30-year-old trader and native of Mbagel Village, Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State, reportedly requested that Afaaruwu move his wheelbarrow, which was obstructing the space where Wenem intended to display his goods.
“The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed a murder incident that occurred today at the Fruit Market, Oil Mill, Rumuokwurusi, Port Harcourt,” CSP Iringe-Koko stated in an official release.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the wheelbarrow pusher refused the request, leading to an argument that tragically escalated into violence.”
During the altercation, Afaaruwu allegedly stabbed Wenem with a dagger, inflicting injuries that proved fatal.
The injured trader was immediately rushed to the Military Hospital in Port Harcourt for urgent medical attention, but doctors confirmed his death upon arrival.
Wenem’s body was subsequently deposited at the morgue for an autopsy to determine the precise cause of death.
The PPRO noted that the incident caused tension and unrest among the market’s traders and local residents, particularly members of the Hausa and Benue communities.
Fears of a broader communal clash were temporarily heightened, as rumors and emotional reactions spread rapidly through the busy market area.
However, prompt intervention by the Rivers State Police helped to calm the situation before it escalated further.
Officers were deployed immediately to the market, restoring order and reassuring traders and residents that the matter was being handled with seriousness and urgency.
CSP Iringe-Koko emphasized that the police presence was critical in preventing further violence and maintaining public safety.
The suspect, Zakara Afaaruwu, remains in police custody as investigations continue.
Authorities are working diligently to gather eyewitness accounts, review CCTV footage where available, and compile evidence that will support legal proceedings.
The police also assured the public that justice will be served in accordance with the law.
This incident has reignited discussions about safety and regulation in markets across Rivers State.
Market disputes, while not uncommon, can quickly escalate when tempers flare, and law enforcement agencies are urging traders to seek peaceful resolutions and report potential conflicts before they turn violent.
Residents of Port Harcourt and surrounding areas have been called upon to remain calm and cooperate with police efforts.
CSP Iringe-Koko reiterated the Rivers State Police Command’s commitment to protecting lives, safeguarding property, and ensuring that public spaces remain secure for everyone.
Local community leaders in Rumuokwurusi have also expressed concern over the tragic loss of life.
They have appealed for dialogue and understanding between different trader groups, emphasizing the importance of peaceful coexistence within multi-ethnic market spaces.
Several community organizations are reportedly planning meetings to discuss strategies to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The tragic death of Higightor Wenem serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly disputes can turn deadly.
Authorities are encouraging traders to respect market rules and personal boundaries while ensuring that disagreements are mediated before reaching dangerous levels.
CSP Iringe-Koko assured that the Rivers State Police Command would continue to monitor the Oil Mill Market closely, alongside other major markets in the state, to prevent further breakdowns in law and order.
She concluded by urging all residents to remain vigilant, calm, and law-abiding while the investigation proceeds.
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