By Our correspondent
A 46-year-old akara (bean cake) seller from Ebonyi State, Christopher Nwali, was brutally assaulted by residents of Ezeiweka road, Awada Obosi, Anambra State, after he reappeared following rumours of his death.
Nwali, who has been in the mobile fast food business for 18 years, narrated his ordeal to newsmen.
He explained that his troubles began after a hospitalization in Asaba, Delta State, sparked rumours of his demise.
Upon his return, Nwali discovered that his business had collapsed due to the false rumours.
His employees were harassed, and customers avoided them, believing the akara balls were sold by a ghost.
During a monthly sanitation exercise, residents insisted Nwali join them to prove he was alive.
However, the gathering turned violent as people threw stones, pebbles, and sharp objects at him to verify his humanity.
One of Nwali’s employees, Chukwunagorom C. Sabastine, corroborated the account, stating that the rumours led to humiliation and a significant decline in business.
“Rumour mongers can kill one unexpectedly. We were so cursed and insulted when ourt master did not appear for two weeks.
“The rumour was all over the place that we are children of a ghost and that we sell akara balls to kill people who eat them,” Sabastine lamented.
Nwali appealed for those responsible for spreading the false rumours to repent, emphasizing the harm caused to his family and business.
He expressed gratitude for his return and pledged to rebuild his business. “It was a thing I will never forget in life; people who carried rumour about should repent for it is aimed at bringing somebody down.
“We have lost all our customers, but thank God that with my presence now, the business is gradually growing,” Nwali said.
The incident highlights the destructive power of misinformation and the importance of verifying facts before spreading information.
Nwali’s business, Uyaka or Nwoke Akara Na Otu, is located at Ezeiweka road and Moore street, Awada Obosi, and offers indoor and outdoor services for events.
Despite facing challenges, Nwali remains determined to succeed in the competitive food industry.
The assault on Nwali has sparked concerns about mob justice and the consequences of spreading false information in Nigerian communities.
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