The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a 30-year-old man, Daniel Onyejekwe, for allegedly stabbing his neighbour, known only as Christian, to death during a dispute over rice.
The incident reportedly took place on New Year’s Day in the Ogwanja area of Sapele, Delta State, following an argument that escalated into a deadly confrontation.
SP Bright Edafe, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Delta State Command, confirmed the situation on Thursday, stating, “It is confirmed, and the suspect is in custody. The two were fighting and both sustained severe injuries. Tragically, one, Christian, has died.”
Quoting eyewitnesses, The PUNCH reports that the altercation began while rice was being distributed along Boyo Road in Ogwanja. An argument erupted between Onyejekwe and Christian, which quickly turned physical.
One eyewitness, who preferred to remain anonymous, recounted, “Christian and Daniel started tugging at the rice, and during the struggle, Daniel grabbed a bottle and stabbed Christian multiple times. The vigilante group rushed Christian to the hospital, but he was sadly pronounced dead on arrival.”
The deceased’s body has been taken to a mortuary, and the police have launched an investigation into the incident.
SP Edafe reassured residents that the suspect would face prosecution once the investigation is complete.