Final Year Student Killed Over N500 Levy

Francis Palowei, a final year student at Niger Delta University (NDU), Amasoma, was brutally murdered by assailants allegedly over a disputed N500 levy. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the community, occurred at a popular sand dump where students often gather to unwind.

According to ASP Musa Mohammed, spokesperson for the Bayelsa State Police Command, the perpetrators, believed to be local youths, attacked Palowei after he reportedly refused to pay the increased levy to access the sand dump in Amasoma. Palowei, hailing from Obrigbene in Ekeremor Local Council, was pursuing studies in Social Science Education at NDU.

Eyewitnesses recount that tensions escalated swiftly when the levy, previously set at N150, was suddenly raised to N500. This sparked a heated argument, leading to a fatal confrontation resulting in Palowei’s death.

“The state commissioner of police has ordered a comprehensive manhunt for the suspects,” stated ASP Musa Mohammed, assuring the public that swift justice will be served. He urged calm among the student community and assured them of the police’s commitment to apprehend those responsible.

Speaking on the incident, Ndoni Igezi, Public Relations Officer of NDU, expressed deep regret over the incident, labeling it as “unfortunate” and emphasizing that authorities are cooperating fully with law enforcement to resolve the matter.