Wheelbarrow Pusher Allegedly Stabs Trader to Death at Oil Mill Market, Port Harcourt

The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a wheelbarrow pusher following the fatal stabbing of a trader at the popular Fruit Market in Oil Mill, Rumuokwurusi, Port Harcourt.

The incident, which occurred at about 7:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 14, 2026, reportedly stemmed from a dispute over space allocation within the busy marketplace. According to a statement from the police, preliminary investigations indicate that the deceased trader, identified as Higightor Wenem, aged 30, had requested that the wheelbarrow pusher move his wheelbarrow to create additional room for displaying goods.

The suspect, identified as Zakara Afaaruwu, allegedly refused the request, leading to a heated exchange between the two men. In the course of the argument, Afaaruwu is said to have produced a dagger and stabbed Wenem.

Bystanders reportedly rushed to intervene as the situation escalated. The victim was immediately transported to the Military Hospital in Port Harcourt for urgent medical attention. However, he was pronounced dead by the attending physician shortly after arrival. His remains have since been deposited in the morgue pending an autopsy.

Police authorities confirmed that the suspect was apprehended shortly after the incident and is currently in custody. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the altercation and whether any additional individuals were involved.

The fatal stabbing triggered tension within the Oil Mill area, particularly between members of the Hausa and Benue communities, to which the suspect and the deceased reportedly belong. Eyewitnesses described a brief period of panic and confusion in the market as news of the killing spread. Traders hurriedly closed their stalls while others fled the scene, fearing possible retaliatory violence.

However, the swift intervention of police operatives helped restore calm and prevent the situation from spiraling into broader unrest. Security personnel have maintained a visible presence in and around the market to ensure that normal activities resume without further disruption.

Oil Mill Market is one of the busiest commercial hubs in Port Harcourt, attracting traders and customers from various parts of the city and neighboring communities. Disputes over space and trading rights are not uncommon in such densely populated markets, especially during peak business hours. Nonetheless, observers say the deadly outcome of Saturday’s disagreement underscores the dangers of unchecked anger and the ready availability of weapons.

Community leaders are expected to hold meetings aimed at easing tensions and promoting peaceful coexistence among traders of different ethnic backgrounds. Market associations may also review internal conflict-resolution mechanisms to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Residents have expressed shock and sadness over the loss of life, particularly given the relatively minor nature of the initial disagreement. Many have called for restraint and urged authorities to ensure that justice is served through due process.

The police have assured members of the public that the situation is under control and that anyone found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. Authorities also encouraged residents to remain calm and report any suspicious activities as investigations continue.

As Port Harcourt grapples with the aftermath of the incident, the tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly everyday disputes can escalate into irreversible consequences.