Tensions escalate in Kaduna as irate youths and hoodlums clash in a Yoruba community, leading to violent confrontations. Learn more about the unrest and its causes.
A violent attack has devastated numerous homes in the Yoruba community of Jushi Waje, situated across from the Nigerian Army Depot Barracks in Sabon Gari, Zaria, Kaduna State.
The unrest started on Sunday, September 29, and lasted for several days before reaching its peak on Tuesday, October 1.
Multiple reports indicate that the conflict began when a young Hausa boy entered a house within the Yoruba community.
The boy was apprehended, and in response, some community members allegedly assaulted him. He later died after being taken to the Sarkin’s palace.
This tragic incident swiftly heightened tensions, prompting enraged youths to assault the Yoruba community and causing extensive property damage.
The Hausa boy was caught stealing in a Yoruba woman’s house and, on Sunday, even his fellow Hausa people beat him. He was later taken to the Sarkin’s palace where he requested water to drink. A Hausa woman provided him with the water.
“In the process, he passed away. By 7 p.m., groups of Hausa youths had mobilized and began vandalizing properties belonging to Yoruba people, setting fire to houses and cars. Alhamdulillah, I faced death but with trust in Allah they only shattered all my glass windows. I’m currently displaced from my home; please continue supporting me and my family with your prayers,” a resident affected told SaharaReporters.
Another resident of the community reported that on Tuesday morning, youths came back and attacked individuals from different tribes.
“They’re back at it, destroying our properties and attacking us. You see, most of these thieves are from Sarkin’s household. In the past, whenever we caught them and brought them to Sarkin’s house, they would be released immediately.”
“One of my close friends, a Hausa boy, sent me a message late last night warning me to leave my house because they plan to kill Yoruba people and members of other tribes today.”
“Yesterday, one of the Hausa boys stabbed a member of our community and owner of Adumas School while he was ensuring his students got home safely amidst the crisis. The boy was handed over to the police but has since been released. Please be aware that we have all left our homes because these Hausa boys are threatening to kill us.”
