Two people were reportedly killed in a violent confrontation between youths from Ekiugbo and Iwhreko communities over revenue collection rights at Ughelli Main Market, located in the Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.
The incident, which erupted on Tuesday, sent traders fleeing as gunshots rang out through the crowded market.
According to eyewitnesses, the conflict began when a group led by a man identified as Onome, also known as “Oyibo,” was allegedly confronted by opposing youths while collecting fees from market vendors. The heated exchange quickly escalated into gunfire, leaving Oyibo dead on the spot. Another victim, identified as Nathaniel, was rushed to Ughelli Central Hospital with gunshot wounds but later succumbed to his injuries.
Olorogun Jaro Egbo, Chairman of Ughelli North Local Council, confirmed the incident, stating, “Upon receiving reports of the shooting, I notified security agencies. Police and Army personnel were deployed to secure the area.
Our priority is to restore calm, and I have directed the police to maintain control in the market.”
An eyewitness recalled the panic as gunfire erupted: “At first, we thought it was fireworks, but the shots didn’t stop, and everyone ran for safety. Later, we found Oyibo’s body near the old Eco-Bank building at Adagharagba Junction.”
A local community leader suggested that the violence might have stemmed from cult-related tensions rather than solely disputes over market levies. However, past clashes between the Ekiugbo and Iwhreko communities over control of revenue in Ughelli Main Market have previously resulted in casualties and property damage.
Security officials are investigating the incident, while local leaders appeal for calm in a market area that has seen recurrent violence over revenue control.
