On New Year’s Day, a tragic incident unfolded in the Ogwanja area of Sapele, Delta State, where a 30-year-old man, Daniel Onyejekwe, allegedly stabbed his neighbor, known only as Christian, to death during a dispute over rice.
According to eyewitnesses, the altercation began as rice was being distributed along Boyo Road in Ogwanja. An argument between Onyejekwe and Christian escalated into a physical confrontation, during which Onyejekwe reportedly picked up a bottle and inflicted multiple stab wounds on Christian. Local vigilante members rushed the injured man to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
The Delta State Police Command has confirmed Onyejekwe’s arrest. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, stated, “It is confirmed, and the suspect is in custody. The two were fighting and injured themselves badly. Unfortunately, one, Christian, died.”
The deceased’s body has been deposited at a mortuary, and the police have launched an investigation into the incident. SP Edafe assured the public that the suspect would face prosecution upon the conclusion of the investigation.
This incident has cast a shadow over the New Year celebrations in the community, highlighting the dire consequences of escalating disputes and the importance of conflict resolution. The local authorities continue to urge residents to seek peaceful means of resolving disagreements to prevent such tragedies.
