It was a tragic day in Amassoma, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, after Francis Palowei, a final year student at Niger Delta University (NDU), was murdered in cold blood by youths.
One cannot begin to imagine the pain Palowei’s family will have to endure, especially when they are told that he was killed over a ₦150 levy.
This tragic incident happened at a local sand dump, a popular relaxation spot for students.
Palowei, the tragic victim of this story is from Obrigbene town in Ekeremor Local Government Area.
He was described as a promising young man with a bright future.
A resident of the community, speaking anonymously, gave details of the incident.
The eyewitness explained that the sand dump is a well-known location.
A Great Business
That is where students often gather to relax, socialize, and enjoy climbing to the top for fun.
Students saw this location as a perfect place for fun, but for the local youths, this was a great business staring them in the face.
Seeing the influx of students, these local youths began charging ₦150 to climb the dump.
All was going well until Monday evening, when Palowei, accompanied by friends, attempted to ascend the dump.
That day, some youths demanded ₦500 instead of the usual ₦150.
That was how an argument broke.
The Clash
Before anyone knew what was happening, the youths to call for reinforcements.
Among their reinforcements was a notorious cultist.
Things escalated quickly and in no time, Palowei was seen lying in a pool of his own blood.
His senseless murder has left his family, friends, and the university community in mourning.
Also Read: High Court In Delta Sentences Two In Murder Of Twin Boys
It was also noted that Palowei’s father is a high-ranking police officer.
Police Reaction
The Public Relations Officer at Niger Delta University, Ndoni Igezi, confirmed the incident on Wednesday, calling it unfortunate.
He assured that the police are actively managing the situation to prevent further escalation.
He clarified that while the sand dump is privately owned and the owner does not charge any fees, some community youths have been collecting ₦150 from individuals wishing to climb the dump for fun.
The police spokesman in Bayelsa State, ASP Musa Muhammed, confirmed the incident in Yenagoa.
He stated that the Commissioner of Police has deployed additional security personnel to the area to restore calm and order.
The police have also launched a manhunt to apprehend the suspected killers.
