Akure, Ondo State – A wave of anger and grief has engulfed Akure, the capital of Ondo State, following the senseless killing of a young trader by a soldier at the bustling Arakale Market. The Nigerian Army and Ondo State Police Command are scrambling to apprehend the perpetrator, who remains at large.

Witnesses describe a chilling scene: an argument over a transaction quickly spiraled into violence when the soldier, allegedly dissatisfied with a service, returned with reinforcements. During the ensuing confrontation, the trader was brutally stabbed to death, his life extinguished on the market floor.

This horrific act of violence sent shockwaves through the market. The victim's colleagues, overwhelmed by grief and fury, erupted in protest. They barricaded Arakale Road, demanding justice and grinding traffic to a halt. Police were eventually able to restore order.

State Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami, confirmed the incident and assured the public that relentless efforts are underway to arrest the soldier responsible. “We condemn this heinous crime,” she declared, "and will work tirelessly with the military authorities to bring the culprit(s) to justice.”

The victim, whose name has not yet been officially released, leaves behind a shattered family and a community united in grief. This chilling incident underscores the urgent need for accountability and the protection of innocent lives from violence at the hands of those entrusted with their safety.

This story is ongoing and updates will be provided as they become available.

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