A yet-to-be-identified soldier is being sought by police after allegedly stabbing a 27-year-old trader, Ezeani Ebuka, to death in Akure, the capital city of Ondo State, Southwest Nigeria on Saturday.
The incident reportedly occurred following a heated argument between the soldier and Ebuka at the popular Arakale Market. Details surrounding the nature of the argument remain unclear. However, sources at the market claim it stemmed from a disagreement over payment for services rendered.
The argument allegedly escalated, culminating in the soldier stabbing Ebuka. The soldier and his companions then fled the scene, leaving Ebuka critically wounded. Despite efforts to rush him to the hospital, Ebuka succumbed to his injuries.
His death sparked outrage among fellow traders, who staged a protest blocking the Arakale neighborhood for several hours. The situation was eventually brought under control by the state police command.
“The police can confirm the stabbing of a young man by a soldier,” police spokesperson Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya stated. “Our command is currently in touch with the military authorities to identify and apprehend the culprit(s).” The Nigerian Army has not yet commented on the incident.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
