The Ifo community in Ogun State was thrown into mourning and unrest following the tragic death of an Igbo woman, Blessing Eze, who was reportedly stabbed by suspected tax collectors during the Eid Mubarak celebrations on Friday, June 6, 2025.
In response, South-East traders in the area have shut down their shops and declared a four-day mourning period, demanding justice for the late Mrs. Eze.
Eyewitnesses allege that local touts approached traders in the market, demanding ₦1,500 each as a festival levy. When the collectors got to Eze, she reportedly pleaded for more time, explaining that she hadn’t made any sales and could not afford the amount at that moment.
Fellow trader Chiamaka Eze recounted that after Blessing’s plea, the touts began destroying her goods. In an attempt to stop the destruction, she confronted them ,a confrontation that tragically ended with her being stabbed in the chest. She later succumbed to the injury.
“This is not the first time we’ve been harassed,” said Simon Uchenna, a representative of the Igbo Market Union. “We’ve endured years of intimidation and extortion from these so-called levy collectors. Blessing’s death is the last straw.”
Union leaders have suspended business activities and vowed not to reopen shops until justice is served. Traders are calling on the Ogun State Government to investigate the killing and prosecute all responsible parties.
Some traders also shared past experiences of violence at the hands of market touts. One man revealed that his wife was attacked by the son of a market official last year, but the case was swept under the rug due to political connections.
“Killers walk free in this country,” another trader lamented. “They tell you openly that nothing will happen and sadly, they’re right.”
The tragic incident has sparked public outrage and highlighted the growing concerns around market security, illegal levies, and law enforcement inaction.
“Festival contributions should be voluntary, not forced,” said Okoye Chizoba, another trader. “We’re tired of living in fear while trying to earn an honest living.”
As the market remains closed, the traders have vowed to continue their peaceful protest until authorities intervene and hold the perpetrators accountable. The community continues to mourn the death of Blessing Eze, with many saying her story must not be forgotten.
“May her soul rest in peace,” echoed voices across the market as candles were lit in her memory.
