From Ebohon Joan
A young man identified as Thomas Ogbianawеi has reportedly been killed following a violent incident that occurred after a football match between teams from Eniwari and Opuama communities in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
According to community sources, trouble started during the friendly match on Saturday, June 13, 2026, after a disagreement erupted among players from both teams. The situation reportedly escalated into a physical confrontation on the pitch, although spectators and match officials were said not to have been involved.
The tension continued after the game when some members of the Opuama team, while returning home, allegedly came across Ogbianawеi along the road between Eniwari and Fonibiri communities. Sources claimed he was attacked after being identified as an indigene of Eniwari.
The young man sustained serious injuries and was later confirmed dead, causing grief among residents and raising concerns over possible retaliation between the communities.
Community leaders have appealed for calm, urging youths to avoid actions that could worsen the situation and create further unrest.
Meanwhile, the Bayelsa State Police Command has confirmed the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, said an investigation is ongoing and that one suspect has already been arrested in connection with the killing.
