Trader Killed, Another Injured in Market Clash

A bloody clash among traders at Amaechi Market in the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State left one trader dead and another fighting for survival on Sunday, November 2, 2025.

The market, one of the busiest in Port Harcourt, was immediately shut down following the violent incident, causing panic among traders and buyers.

Eyewitnesses reported that the confrontation began around 11 a.m., over a ₦500 dispute between a group of Hausa meat sellers and a trader identified as Ejike Enyadike, who hails from an eastern Nigerian State.

The disagreement reportedly escalated quickly into a violent attack, with some of the Hausa traders allegedly using daggers to assault Enyadike.

During the attack, another trader from Akwa Ibom State, who tried to intervene, was also stabbed in the ribs and is currently receiving treatment at the Rukpokwu Primary Health Centre in critical condition.

Enyadike, however, succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at the health facility.

Following the incident, a wave of fear spread through Amaechi Market. Traders closed their stalls, while shoppers fled the area to avoid further clashes.

In response, the Obio/Akpor Local Government authorities ordered the temporary closure of the market and deployed security personnel to prevent escalation and maintain order.

The Rivers State Police Command, through spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the stabbing and the fatality, describing the incident as “tragic and under thorough investigation.” She added that tactical units have been sent to secure the area and that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators.

Community leaders in Rukpokwu called for calm, appealing to residents to avoid taking the law into their own hands. They urged cooperation with law enforcement as the investigation continues.

The incident has sparked concern about safety in the State’s major markets, highlighting the urgent need for conflict resolution measures among traders and stricter market security enforcement.

The market remains closed as authorities continue investigations, while the State Government has promised to ensure justice for the victim and safeguard traders from further violence.