A bloody clash between Hausa people and indigenous youths in Ogheghe community, Egor local government area of Edo State, has reportedly led to the injury of some youths in Benin City.
The clash was reportedly over the killing of a suspected ‘yahoo boy’ identified as Chigozie Ifeonu, popularly known as Chizi Benz.
Chizi Benz was reportedly stabbed to death by a Hausa youth over a suspected deal that went sour.
As at press time, details of the incident were still sketchy.
Chidi Benz’s murder, however, sparked outrage as youths stormed the streets with dangerous weapons in a revenge mission.
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Reports indicate that several people were injured in the reprisal attack, while many others fled to safety.
According to eyewitnesses, angry youths took to the streets demanding justice and an end to what they described as “repeated and senseless killings.”
In retaliation, parts of the Hausa Quarters were set ablaze as mobs accused some residents there of harbouring criminal elements and drug dealers allegedly fueling insecurity in the community.
Commercial motorcyclists (okada riders) and petty traders in the area shut down their businesses and ran for cover.
Security operatives were later deployed to the area to restore calm, firing tear gas to disperse the crowd as tension escalated.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the arrest of 13 suspects in connection with the violence, assuring that investigations are ongoing and that anyone found culpable will be prosecuted.
As at press time, normalcy was gradually returning to the area, but residents say fear still lingers, and they are calling on the authorities to ensure justice is served and peace permanently restored to Ogheghe.
