A family gathering in Delta State turned tragic after a 47-year-old man allegedly killed his first cousin over a ₦1,000 refund.
The incident occurred on December 12, 2025, in Ughelli South, according to the Delta State Police Command.
Spokesperson SP Edafe Bright confirmed in a video shared on X that the family had recently returned from the burial of a relative and convened a meeting.
“The atmosphere soured when a dispute broke out over a ₦1,000 burial contribution refund,” Edafe said. “This young man insisted on getting his money back, and in the process of fighting, he struck his cousin, who later died. He was cautioned by several relatives, including the deceased, but he did not listen.”
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The suspect, identified as Ezekiel, expressed remorse, claiming the death was accidental. “It was by mistake. I didn’t know when I hit him,” he said.
He explained that the ₦1,000 in question was a contribution for the burial rites, traditionally refunded to the owner after the ceremony.
Edafe used the incident to urge the public to exercise emotional restraint. “Any form of fighting could lead to death. A word they say is enough for the wise. Prevention is better than cure,” he advised.
The case serves as a grim reminder of how minor disputes can escalate into tragic consequences.