A family meeting in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State ended in tragedy after a 47-year-old man allegedly killed his cousin during a dispute over a ₦1,000 burial contribution.
The incident occurred on December 12, 2025, shortly after family members returned from the burial of a relative and gathered to settle outstanding matters.
According to the Delta State Police Command, tension arose when an argument broke out over the refund of a ₦1,000 contribution, which escalated into a physical confrontation.
“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.”
The suspect, identified as Ezekiel, later expressed remorse, claiming the death was accidental and admitting that several family members had pleaded with him to calm down.
He explained that the money was a burial contribution traditionally refunded after the ceremony, insisting that he did not intend to cause harm.
Edafe urged Nigerians to exercise restraint during disputes, warning that minor arguments could quickly escalate into deadly situations.
“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.