A Vietnam-based Nigerian, Samson Nwaubani, has been killed in a violent clash during Umuahia’s New Yam festival.
The fatal conflict between Okwu and Umuajata youths also left several others injured.
A communal conflict in Umuahia, Abia State, has claimed the life of a Vietnam-based Nigerian, Mr. Samson Nwaubani. The incident occurred on Tuesday, August 27, during the annual New Yam festival in Olokoro.
Witnesses said the crisis erupted following a quarrel between a resident of Umuajata and another from Okwu, which quickly spiraled into violence. Reports indicate that youths from Okwu later stormed Umuajata, leading to the destruction of property and heightened tensions in the area.
On the day of the festival, Samson reportedly joined some Okwu youths heading to the celebration grounds. According to sources, they were ambushed by suspected Umuajata youths, sparking a bloody confrontation.
“Samson was attacked during the fight. He sustained a stab wound to the neck and injuries to his arm. Sadly, he collapsed and died at the scene,” one source recounted.
Another community elder explained that efforts had earlier been made to prevent the violence from escalating. “The issue stems from a long-standing dispute between the Okwu Olokoro and Umuajata Olokoro communities. The elders tried to intervene and warned the youths not to let the matter worsen, but unfortunately, the clash still occurred. Aside from the fatality, several others were injured,” the source added.
The clash has since left both communities in shock, with calls for renewed peace efforts to prevent further bloodshed.
