Deadly Violence Erupts Over Asaba Land Ownership
A violent confrontation over land ownership at Kilometre 1, Asaba-Benin Expressway in Delta State turned deadly on Monday, November 24, 2025, leaving four people dead and five others with serious gunshot injuries.
How the Tragic Incident Unfolded
According to Dalha Muhammad, the caretaker of the disputed property, the violence began when armed vigilante operatives arrived at the compound in multiple vehicles and attempted to forcefully eject the tenants. "They opened fire when the tenants refused to vacate the premises," Muhammad stated, confirming the tragic events that occurred on that Monday.
Witnesses reported that four tenants died on the spot during the shooting. The victims have been identified as:
- Kabiru Abdullahi
- Mohammed (full name not provided)
The five injured victims, including Baba Ado and Muzan, are currently receiving medical treatment for gunshot wounds at St. Rebecca Hospital in Asaba.
Security Response and Legal Background
Local residents reported that despite alerting the police during the attack, officers only arrived at the scene after the assailants had already left the area.
Alhaji Auwalu Dalhatu, Chairman of Abraka Quarters, revealed that security operatives had previously visited the property on November 21, 2025 – just three days before the violent incident – and directed the occupants to vacate the premises.
However, the tenants maintained they had legal rights to remain on the property, relying on an existing court judgment that affirmed Mr. Kingsley Ijebuonwu as their legitimate landlord. Dalhatu confirmed that the tenants had reported the earlier threats to the B Division Police Station, where they were assured of protection.
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges of land disputes in Nigeria and raises serious questions about the use of force in property conflicts.
