23-Year-Old Killed in Benue Over Palm Fruit Dispute, Suspect Flees

A 23-year-old man has been killed in a violent confrontation with his neighbour over the harvesting of palm fruits in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

The incident occurred on Monday, February 16, 2026, at about 2:20 p.m. in Pass Brother Community, Guma LGA. According to sources, the deceased, identified as David Orade, confronted his 30-year-old neighbour, Felix Cephas, accusing him of harvesting palm fruits from trees allegedly belonging to his family.

The disagreement quickly escalated into a physical fight, during which the suspect reportedly inflicted serious injuries on the victim. David Orade was rushed to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital for emergency treatment but was later pronounced dead by medical personnel. His remains have been deposited at the hospital mortuary.

Reports indicate that the suspect fled the scene immediately after the altercation and remains at large. Police sources confirmed that a manhunt has been launched, while investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fatal clash are ongoing.

The tragic incident highlights how minor communal disputes over natural resources can rapidly turn deadly in rural communities, often fuelled by longstanding tensions over land and crop ownership. Authorities are appealing for information that could lead to the arrest of the fleeing suspect as efforts continue to bring the matter to a swift and just conclusion.