Farm quarrel ends in tragedy as 19-year-old stabs friend to death in Gombe
By: Zagazola Makama
What began as a routine day on the farm in Kulani Chessi village, Balanga Local Government Area of Gombe State, ended in tragedy on Monday when a petty argument between two young men turned deadly.
The police have confirmed the arrest of 19-year-old Mustapha Adamu, who allegedly stabbed his 20-year-old friend and co-worker, Yahuza Labaran, following a disagreement while they were farming.
Zagazola Makama gathered that the two young men had gone to the farm as they usually did, but at about 3 p.m., a heated argument ensued. What triggered the dispute remains unclear, but what followed was a violent attack that left the community in shock.
Sources said that in the heat of the argument, Mustapha drew a knife and stabbed Yahuza in the left shoulder, causing a deep wound that led to significant blood loss.
Upon receipt of the report, a team of policemen was dispatched to the scene. The victim was rushed to the Balanga General Hospital, but he was confirmed dead on arrival by a medical doctor
The suspect was promptly arrested by the police and is currently in custody. During preliminary interrogation, he reportedly confessed to the act, saying he had no intention of killing his friend.
“I didn’t mean to kill him,” Mustapha was quoted as saying during his confession. “We were only arguing, and I lost my temper.”
The tragic incident has cast a dark cloud over the quiet farming village, with residents mourning the loss of a young life and calling for greater efforts to promote non-violent conflict resolution among youths.
Village elder Mallam Umaru Kalla expressed concern over the growing rate of youth violence in rural communities, especially among farm workers.
“This is not the first time a minor disagreement has escalated into something deadly,” Kalla said. “We need to start teaching our children how to resolve issues without violence. A knife should not be the answer to every disagreement.”
Police authorities have assured the public that investigation is ongoing and that the suspect will be charged to court upon conclusion.
