Two killed, seven injured in Jigawa communal clash
At least two people were reportedly killed and seven others injured in a midnight clash between herders and farmers on Wednesday in Dagaceri, Birniwa Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
Report has it that the incident was as a result of longstanding disputes over land and grazing rights which has also caused chaos and forced many residents to flee the area.
SP Shi’isu Adam, the Jigawa State Police public relations officer, confirmed the attacks on Thursday afternoon, noting that seven suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident.
According to him, “We recovered bows and arrows, cutlasses, phones, and local charms at the scene and immediately launched Operation Salama to restore peace”.
Hassan Abdullahi, an eyewitness described the incident as terrifying. “People were running in all directions as attackers set fire to homes. It was a night filled with fear and confusion.”
Izaddeen Usman, another resident also shared his ordeal saying, “I hid with my children in the bushes. The loud screams made it clear that lives were in danger.”
Malam Garba, an elder in the area, called for peace, urging parties to seek dialogue over violence. “We cannot afford more bloodshed; peaceful resolutions are the only way forward,” he said.
Usman Tela, another community leader, expressed hope that harmony will return soon so people can live and farm without fear.
Security forces have continue to patrol the area to maintain calm after the attack, as displaced families try to rebuild their lives.
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Bala Nura, a human rights activist on his part condemned the violence and called on the government to intervene urgently to protect vulnerable residents.
He also appealed to the conflicting parties to embrace dialogue and peaceful coexistence to prevent further suffering across the state.
Nura stressed the need for security agencies to act decisively against perpetrators to safeguard human rights.
Attempts to obtain comments from the herders leadership through the Jigawa State branch of Kautel Houre, proved abortive, as calls to the forum’s chairman went unanswered despite numerous tries.
An insider told reporters that government officials are arranging peace talks and exploring the establishment of grazing reserves to minimise future conflicts.
