National
Outrage as Soldier Allegedly Stabs Man to Death in Delta

By Diafa Doubra
Tragedy struck in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State on Sunday, October 12, as a soldier allegedly stabbed a young man identified simply as Ugo to death in the presence of his younger brother and cousin. The incident, which occurred near Plantation City Estate, Otokutu community, has left residents in shock and mourning.
According to eyewitnesses, the deceased, who was in his early thirties and whose wife is heavily pregnant, was attacked and stabbed after being beaten and assaulted by the soldier. Ugo sustained deep injuries to his hand and ribs, leading to his death shortly after he was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Confirming the incident, the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said in a brief WhatsApp message to journalists, “We received the complaint, that’s all I can say for now.”
Narrating how the tragic event unfolded, the deceased’s younger brother, identified as Toshi, explained that they were on their way to visit a friend inside the estate when the security guard at the gate stopped them for questioning. While Ugo was trying to call his friend to confirm their visit, a soldier reportedly approached their car and accused him of attempting to force his way into the estate. Despite Ugo’s calm explanation, the soldier allegedly slapped him twice, prompting his relatives to intervene.
Toshi recounted that the situation escalated when another soldier joined in, and both men began manhandling them. “The military man kept slapping and beating my brother,” he said. “Even when the person we came to see came out and told them we were his visitors, the soldier ignored him and kept saying, ‘Do you know who I am?’ My brother tried to free himself, but the soldier overpowered him.”
Moments later, chaos erupted as Toshi moved their car to ease traffic, only to return and find his brother bleeding profusely. “He was lying in a pool of blood,” Toshi said tearfully. “They stabbed him in the hand and ribs. It was a very deep cut. We rushed him to the hospital, but he didn’t make it.”
The family is now calling on the Delta State Police Command, the Nigerian Army, and other relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure justice for Ugo.
Reacting to the incident, human rights activist Comrade Israel Joe condemned the brutal killing and urged the Chief of Army Staff and the Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, to take immediate action. “This is a gross abuse of power and a violation of human rights,” Joe stated. “No one deserves to die in such a manner. The soldiers involved must be identified, investigated, and brought to justice.”
As investigations continue, tension remains high in the community, with residents demanding accountability and justice for the slain young man.