A family gathering in Ughelli South, Delta State, ended in tragedy on December 12, 2025, when a 47-year-old man allegedly killed his first cousin during an argument over the refund of a ₦1,000 contribution.
The Delta State Police Command confirmed the incident. In a video shared on X on Monday, the state police spokesperson, SP Edafe Bright, provided details of the fatal confrontation.
Dispute Escalates During Family Meeting
According to SP Bright, the family had recently returned from a relative’s burial and convened a meeting. The atmosphere, however, soured when a disagreement arose over the refund of a ₦1,000 contribution.
“This young man was dragging and bringing all down fire and brimstone that they must give him back his 1,000,” Edafe said.
He continued, “In the process of dragging, he started fighting. Somewhere along the line, according to him, while he was trying to wriggle his way out of the fight, he used his hand to hit one of the brothers, a relative of his, who eventually died.
“Now, N1,000 argument has led to the death of a family member. He was being cautioned even by this very guy who eventually passed.
“The spirit that possessed him, according to him, would not allow him to listen to the voice of wisdom. The man who died is 42 years. Somebody has died just because of N1,000.”
Suspect Expresses Remorse
The suspect, identified as 47-year-old Ezekiel, expressed regret over the incident, insisting that the death was accidental.
He admitted that several relatives, including the deceased, had pleaded with him to calm down. “It was by mistake. I didn’t know when I hit him,” he said.
Ezekiel explained that the ₦1,000 in question was a contribution made for the burial rites, which is traditionally refunded to the owner after the ceremony.
“After everything, they always shared it. That’s how we return the money to the owner,” he stated.
Police Urge Emotional Restraint
SP Bright used the incident to caution the public on the importance of controlling emotions, even in minor disputes.
“Mine is to talk to our listeners to understand the importance of controlling your temper. You have to calm down. Any form of fighting could lead to death. It can turn into manslaughter. It could turn to murder. Please, a word they say is enough for the wise. Prevention is better than cure,” Edafe concluded.