Four Northern Traders Killed, Shops Looted in Rivers Anti‑Northerners Protest

Four Northern Traders Killed, Shops Looted in Rivers Anti‑Northerners Protest

At least four northern traders were killed and several businesses looted during violent protests targeting northerners at the Oil Mill Market in Rumuokwurusi, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, over the weekend. The unrest has heightened concerns about ethnic tensions and public safety in the commercial hub.

Mr. Musa Saidu, Chairman of the Hausa Community in Rivers State, disclosed the fatalities while leading northern leaders to the market to assess the damage. He reported that multiple shops owned by northern traders were vandalised and looted, resulting in losses worth millions of naira. Saidu urged northerners living and doing business in the state to remain calm, emphasising that they are law-abiding citizens engaged in legitimate trade.

The protests were triggered by a fatal dispute on February 10, when Nchelem Samuel Festus, an indigene of Igwuruta in Ikwerre Local Government Area, was allegedly stabbed to death by a northern commercial motorcyclist over a stolen motorcycle. Festus later died from his injuries, sparking demonstrations and anger among residents. Protesters accused northern riders of involvement in other crimes, including rape and kidnapping, and demanded a ban on commercial motorcycle operations by northerners.

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Tensions escalated further when a wheelbarrow pusher, Zakara Afaaruwu, allegedly stabbed a trader from Benue State, Higightor Wenem, to death during a dispute over space at the market. The incident prompted renewed attacks on northern traders and widespread destruction of property. Afaaruwu has been arrested and is in police custody for investigation.

Security authorities have stepped up patrols in affected areas, with local councils imposing temporary restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations to prevent further clashes. Despite the reports from community leaders, the Rivers State Police have not officially confirmed the deaths, with CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, the Police Public Relations Officer, stating she was unaware of any fatalities.

Community leaders continue to appeal for peace and restraint, warning that targeting people based on regional or ethnic identity could escalate the violence. The incident underscores the urgent need for dialogue, lawful conflict resolution, and stronger measures to address socio-economic and regional tensions in the state.

Four Northern Traders Killed, Shops Looted in Rivers Anti‑Northerners Protest