A final-year student of Niger Delta University (NDU) Wilberforce Island, Francis Palowei, was tragically stabbed to death by local youths over a 500 Naira levy in Amassoma community, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The incident occurred on Monday, July 15, 2024, when Palowei, a student in the Social Science Education Department, refused to pay the demanded amount.
According to a resident who spoke to Daily Trust under anonymity, the sand dump where the incident took place is a popular gathering spot for students to relax and socialize. Local youths, taking advantage of the student presence, imposed a levy on anyone wanting to climb to the top of the sand dump.
On that fateful evening, Palowei and his friends were at the sand dump when they were approached by the youths demanding 500 Naira instead of the usual 150 Naira levy. An argument ensued, leading the youths to summon reinforcements, including a notorious cultist, resulting in the fatal attack on Palowei.
The community is in mourning, with residents describing Palowei as a promising young man with a bright future. His death has left his family, friends, and the university community devastated. Palowei, a native of Obrigbene town in Ekeremor Local Government Area, was set to graduate on July 24, 2024.
It has been revealed that Palowei’s father is a high-ranking police officer, adding to the tragedy's gravity.
Niger Delta University’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ndoni Igezi, confirmed the incident, expressing deep regret and noting that the police are actively involved in preventing further escalation.
"The sand dump is located at the end of the community. Though the owner of the dump does not charge any fees, some youths in the community typically collect 150 Naira for access to the top," Igezi explained.
Bayelsa State Police Command’s spokesperson, ASP Musa Muhammed, also confirmed the incident, stating that the Commissioner of Police has deployed additional security personnel to the area to restore calm and order. He assured that the police are diligently tracking down the suspects responsible for the killing.
The tragic death of Francis Palowei has sparked outrage and calls for justice, with the community demanding swift action to prevent such senseless violence in the future.
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