The Rivers State Government has ordered the immediate closure of the Obio/Akpor International Market, popularly known as Amaechi Market, after a tragic incident that claimed the life of a trader identified simply as Ejike.According to reports, Ejike was allegedly stabbed to death by a group of meat sellers during a heated dispute over N500 on Monday.
The altercation reportedly escalated into violence, leading to the fatal attack that sparked outrage among traders and residents in the area.In response to the chaos, authorities swiftly intervened, deploying security personnel to restore order and prevent further breakdown of law and order. The Rivers State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, who confirmed the development, announced that the market would remain closed indefinitely pending the outcome of a full investigation into the killing.Eyewitnesses described the scene as tense, noting that several traders fled the market in panic as the situation deteriorated.
Meanwhile, security agencies have reportedly launched a manhunt for the suspects involved in the attack, while the body of the deceased has been deposited at a nearby morgue.The government has also warned that it will not tolerate any form of violence in the stateโs marketplaces and vowed to ensure that those responsible for the killing face the full weight of the law.