A recent graduate of the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, identified simply as Steven, has been reportedly stabbed to death by suspected vigilante operatives in Imo State.
The tragic incident occurred on Friday night, according to reports shared by NaijaConfra, a social media platform dedicated to advocacy against cultism and street violence.
Eyewitness accounts allege that Steven was accosted by members of a local vigilante group who attempted to rob him of his belongings. When he resisted, one of the men allegedly stabbed him multiple times.
Despite his injuries, Steven reportedly fled into a nearby bush in a desperate attempt to save his life. His body was found the following morning, lifeless and covered in blood, suggesting he bled to death overnight.
Friends of the deceased have since taken to social media demanding justice. One of them, Smart Nation, wrote on Facebook:
“Could this be a dream? How can we reconcile the fact that a security officer charged with safeguarding lives was the same person who took the life of our brother? Farewell #Stevo.”
Another friend, Miracle Oke, appealed for accountability, saying, “Please do anything to help us get justice for my brother’s death.”
As of press time, the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, had not responded to calls or messages seeking official comment on the incident.
This latest killing adds to growing public concern over the conduct of local vigilante groups in the South-East, where residents have accused some operatives of abuse of power, extrajudicial killings, and illegal detentions under the guise of maintaining security.
The death of Steven, described by friends as a promising young man preparing for life after school, has reignited calls for stronger oversight of local security outfits across the region.
