Igbo Traders in Ifo Shut Shops in Protest After Woman Murdered Over ₦1,500 “Festival Tax”

Igbo Traders in Ifo Shut Shops in Protest After Woman Murdered Over ₦1,500 “Festival Tax”

Have you heard what just rocked Ifo market in Ogun State? Here's a quick rundown 👇

What happened?

On June 6, during the Eid‐Mubarak hustle, Blessing Eze—a mother of two—was tragically stabbed to death. The cause? She couldn’t pay a ₦1,500 festival tax demanded by touts. When she explained she had no money, her goods were trashed and she was stabbed in the chest by a tout .

Why are shops shut?

In defiance and mourning, Igbo traders under the Igbo Market Union closed their shops for four days starting June 7. They're demanding justice, an end to forced “festival” taxes, and intervention from the Ogun State Government ([saharareporters.com][1]).

What's the bigger picture?

This isn’t the first abuse. Last year, another trader’s wife was stabbed in a similar extortion attempt—yet no one was held accountable. Communities highlight a pattern of impunity and demand protection ([saharareporters.com][1]).

What are people saying?

One voter on X (Twitter) emphasized: “This isn’t about tribe, it’s about humanity.” The hashtag #JusticeForBlessing is gaining traction as the nation watches whether authorities will act.

 🤔 What can you do?

Share this article with friends and on social media.

Support calls for justice using #JusticeForBlessing.

Ask local reps: Will they stand up for traders

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