A 21-year-old Nigerian-Irish concert promoter, Qayyum Balogun, has died after being stabbed during a violent altercation involving two groups near a nightclub in Dublin city centre, Ireland.
The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Monday around the vicinity of Bewley’s Café, where Balogun had spent the night before a confrontation broke out between rival groups.
Witnesses said the confrontation escalated into violence, during which the victim was initially stabbed in the arm. He was said to have attempted to flee the scene but was allegedly pursued through several streets by members of the opposing group.
He was reportedly caught and stabbed multiple times during the chase.
Emergency responders administered first aid at the scene before rushing him to St James’ Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
A young woman who was also present during the incident was said to have sustained stab injuries.
The Irish police, known as Gardaí, have since launched a murder investigation into the incident and are reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding streets, which they believe may contain crucial evidence identifying those involved.
Authorities have also appealed to members of the public who may have witnessed movements or disturbances between 2:30 a.m. and 3:30 a.m. around South Anne Street, Duke Lane Upper, Grafton Street, Clarendon Street, and adjoining areas to come forward with information.
While the motive for the attack remains unclear, investigators are reportedly exploring multiple leads, although early indications suggest it may not be racially motivated. Detectives are also working to determine whether the victim had any prior relationship or association with his attackers.
A spokesperson for Ireland’s Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan, said the minister had been briefed on the incident by Gardaí and extended condolences to the bereaved family.
The victim’s mother, Teslimot Balogun, described her son in an interview as “a very funny guy,” adding that he was “always friendly, very quiet and easy-going.”
His stepmother, Loveth Patrick, also paid tribute, describing him as “one of the sweetest souls you could ever meet,” noting that he was “gentle, calm, always smiling and never looked for trouble.”
She called for justice, saying, “We want justice for Qayyum.”
According to Irish media reports, the victim’s father, who resides outside Ireland, is expected to travel to the country following news of his son’s death.
