An 18‑year‑old apprentice has been arrested by police in Onitsha, Anambra State, after allegedly killing his master with a pestle during a confrontation over his conduct, shocking residents of the busy Fegge community.
The incident occurred on Sunday in the Fegge area of Onitsha South Local Government Area, a bustling urban district known for its markets and commercial activities. The deceased, identified as Iyke, was a trader at the Ogbo‑Ogwu Bridgehead Medicine Market, one of the city’s major business hubs, where he mentored several young apprentices.
According to eyewitness accounts, trouble began when the apprentice, named only as Chiemerie, was scolded by his master for what neighbors described as repeated misbehavior, including pilfering money, taking drugs and returning home late at night.
It is alleged that during the heated exchange, Chiemerie picked up a pestle from the kitchen and struck Iyke on the head.
Residents who heard the commotion rushed to the scene, but the victim was seriously injured and rushed to a hospital.
He later succumbed to his injuries, according to local sources. The violent nature of the attack has left many in the community deeply disturbed.
When contacted on Monday, the Spokesman for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident to journalists and said the suspect was already in custody.
He also confirmed that the pestle used in the attack had been recovered by police investigators.
Police said the case has now been taken up by the command’s Criminal Investigation Department in Awka, as detectives work to piece together the full circumstances leading to the alleged murder.
They added that further statements will be obtained from the suspect as part of the ongoing investigation.
The killing was a rude shock to traders and residents in Onitsha, a city that has long relied on the apprenticeship system, a unique Igbo form of trade mentorship — to train young people in various crafts and businesses.
The apprenticeship is widely recognized as a positive means for youth to gain skills and sustain the wealth creation in the community.
Police have promised prosecution and asked that everyone allow the legal process to unfold.
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