Final year varsity student beaten to death over N150 levy
In a heartbreaking incident that has shocked the Niger Delta University, a final year student named Francis Palowei from the Social Science Education Department was tragically beaten to death by youths from Amassoma, the host community.
The attack took place at a sand dump in the area over a disputed N150 ‘levy.’
According to a resident of the community who spoke anonymously to Daily Trust, the sand dump was a popular hangout spot for students to relax, socialize, and enjoy the view from the top.
However, some local youths decided to impose a fee on students visiting the spot, especially those attempting to climb to the summit.
The fatal altercation occurred on Monday evening when Palowei and his friends visited the sand dump.
Instead of the usual N150 fee, the youths demanded N500, leading to a heated argument. The situation escalated when more individuals, including a known cultist, joined in the attack against Palowei.
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Palowei, a promising young man hailing from Obrigbene town in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, was described as having a bright future ahead of him.
His untimely death has plunged his family, friends, and the university community into deep mourning.
It was also gathered that the deceased’s father is a high ranking police officer.
The Public Relations Officer in the Niger Delta University, Mr Ndoni Igezi, who confirmed the incident on Wednesday, described it as unfortunate, stating that police were already on the matter to curtail any escalation.
He said, “The sand dump is located at the end of the community. Though the owner of the dump is not charging any fees from it, some youths in the community normally collect N150 to allow people climb to the top to have fun.”
Police spokesman in Bayelsa State, ASP Musa Muhammed, said the Commissioner of Police had already deployed additional security personnel to the area to restore calm and orderliness.
He also stated that police were on the trail of the suspected killers.
Proofreading by Fa’izatu Aliyu Doma, Journalist at Neptune Prime.
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