Biafra: Nigerian killed in India over argument on secession

A Nigerian simply identified as N. Chigozie, has been killed in India after reportedly being involved in an argument about Biafra.

His body was found at Hennur, North-East of Bengaluru, in the early hours of Monday. Although Chigozie was said to have died after a motorcycle crash but his brother, simply identified as Nonso, said he was murdered.

On Sunday, when Chigozie, Nonso and four other Nigerians partied at an African Kitchen restaurant at a place called Byrathi, a disagreement was said to have ensued about food.

“The six revellers quarrelled over sharing food and assaulted each other. Nieskho (Nonso) went to a nearby hospital to treat his injuries and Chigozie followed him on bike. While returning from the hospital, Chigozie died,” the police said.

“It seems to be an accidental death. Preliminary evidence shows Chigozie, who was speeding on his bike, crashed into an iron railing and died of head injuries. He was not wearing a helmet. But his younger brother Nieskho claims he was murdered.”

Bangalore Mirror, a local newspaper, said Chigozie was “killed after an argument with other friends over Biafra.”

“The victim, along with his brother Nanso, is said to have partied with a group of friends at a house in Byrathi. During the party, it is alleged that the brothers and their friends had an argument over a political development in their country. Police said both brothers were allegedly beaten up,” the newspaper said.

“Nonso, who had come in his car, drove to a nearby private hospital and is said to have taken treatment. Chigozie, who was returning home on his bike, was found dead near the railway bridge.

“Nonso suspects that his brother could have been killed. However prima facie evidence suggests that the death could also be due to an accident.

“The victim could have skidded and fell from the bike while riding home. It was raining heavily. But a murder case has been registered based on his brother’s complaint and investigations are on.”

The police also said the group of friends, who were partying discussed information of a separate state in Nigeria (Biafra).

“The discussion led to assault and the brothers were badly beaten up,” the police said.