Two Killed in Violent Clash Over Market Control in Delta State

Two people have been killed at Ughelli Main Market in Ughelli Local Government Area, Delta State, following violent clashes believed to be linked to a battle for control of the town’s main market.

The victims, identified as the former local security boss, known as Onome (alias Oyibo), and Nathaniel Ogra, were gunned down in two separate incidents on Monday, November 11, 2024.

Local sources suggest the violence is connected to an ongoing power struggle over who controls revenue collection at the town’s market.

Reports indicate that Onome and Ogra were on a routine collection round at the market when they encountered members of a rival group who challenged their authority to gather funds. The situation quickly escalated into a confrontation, during which gunshots were fired.

As the chaos unfolded, several bystanders fled the scene. Witnesses later discovered Onome and Ogra lying in pools of blood. Ogra later died at Ughelli Central Hospital, where he had been taken for medical attention.

The Ughelli Main Market has long been a flashpoint for violence, with tensions running high between the Ekiugbo and Iwreko communities over control of the market levy.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the events surrounding the killings, as the situation remains tense in the community.