Rivers State Violence: Four Northern Traders Killed in 'Aboki Must Go' Market Protest
The Hausa community in Rivers State has officially confirmed that four northern traders lost their lives during violent protests that erupted at the Oil Mill Market in the Rumuokwurusi area of Port Harcourt last weekend. This confirmation was provided by the Chairman of the Hausa Community in the state, Musa Saidu, on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, during an assessment visit to the affected market alongside other northern leaders.
Widespread Looting and Vandalism Reported
Musa Saidu detailed that the violence led to extensive looting and destruction of shops owned by northern traders, describing the scale of damage as significant. He appealed to northern residents in Rivers State to remain calm and law-abiding despite the escalating tensions, emphasizing that northerners in the state are engaged in legitimate businesses and have historically coexisted peacefully with host communities.
"About four northern traders were killed during the protest at Oil Mill Market. I visited the area today with some journalists. We went round the shops of those affected and saw that many had been looted," Saidu stated during his interaction with journalists.
Protest Triggered by Killing of Rivers Indigene
The protests were sparked by the killing of a Rivers indigene, Nchelem Samuel Festus, allegedly by a northern commercial motorcyclist in Igwuruta, Ikwerre Local Government Area. Festus was accused of stealing a motorcycle from a shop reportedly owned by northerners. During an attempt to recover the motorcycle, an argument ensued, resulting in Festus being stabbed, and he later died from his injuries.
This incident, which occurred on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, ignited protests, with demonstrators accusing northern commercial motorcyclists of responsibility for the killing and alleging their involvement in other crimes, including kidnapping and rape. As part of the protest, demonstrators blocked the Port Harcourt International Airport Road, demanding an immediate ban on commercial motorcycle operations by northern riders.
Tensions Escalate Further
Tensions escalated further on Saturday after a dispute at the Oil Mill Market reportedly led to the killing of a trader from Benue State, Higightor Wenem, allegedly stabbed by a wheelbarrow pusher, Zakara Afaaruwu. This incident reignited attacks on northern traders, with more shops vandalized and goods carted away.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the arrest of Zakara Afaaruwu, stating that he is currently in custody and under investigation. However, reacting to claims of four deaths among northern traders, the Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, said she was not aware of such fatalities.
"I’m not aware of any killing. I have already stated what happened during the protest," Iringe-Koko remarked, highlighting a discrepancy between community reports and official police accounts.
Calls for Calm and Continued Monitoring
The situation continues to draw significant attention as community leaders urge for calm and authorities intensify efforts to prevent further violence in the area. The ongoing investigations and assessments aim to address the root causes of the conflict and restore peace in Rivers State.
