A violent clash between farmers and herders in a Niger community has reportedly resulted in multiple casualties, raising concerns over escalating tensions and the need for conflict resolution.
An undefined number of individuals have been killed in a violent confrontation that occurred within the Barkuta community, situated in the Beji district of Bosso local government area located in Niger State.
On Tuesday morning, a violent clash ensued between the indigenous Gbagyi community and herdsmen resulting in numerous severe injuries and destruction of homes.
Although the specifics of the altercation are uncertain, it has been reported that herdsmen purportedly instigated a dispute after slaying an esteemed farmer identified only as Alhaji. Allegedly, he had voiced opposition to cattle trespassing on his land.
On Monday evening, Alhaji took his grievances about the occurrence on his farm to the herders’ settlement.
It was discovered that Alhaji didn’t return from his visit to the herdsmen’s settlement on Monday evening. Consequently, a search party consisting of community members was launched and they found his body in the bush on Tuesday morning.
The community reportedly became infuriated upon learning of the discovery, and proceeded to mobilize an attack on the herdsmen’s enclaves. This resulted in a confrontation that allegedly caused numerous fatalities and inflicted injuries on several individuals.
Additional information indicates that the vicinity is currently overwhelmed with terror and apprehension, leading inhabitants to evacuate in expectation of revengeful assaults.
The Public Relations Officer, SP Wasiu Abiodun of the State Police command confirmed the incident upon being contacted. However, he mentioned that details about it were currently incomplete.
“When we have more information on the cause of the conflict between farmers and headers in Bosso local government, including the total number of casualties, a statement will be released by command,” he stated.
