Kebbi govt vows justice after farmers-herders clash claims eight lives

Kebbi State Government has pledged to ensure justice for victims of the recent farmers-herders clash in Gulma, Argungu Local Government Area, which claimed eight lives.

Deputy Governor Umar Abubakar Tafida gave the assurance while leading a state government delegation to condole with residents of Gulma on behalf of Governor Nasir Idris.

Speaking at the Emir’s Palace in Argungu before the funeral prayers for the victims, Tafida conveyed the government’s condolences to the affected families and assured them that those responsible for the violence would be brought to justice.

He urged residents to remain calm and allow security agencies to carry out their investigations, while encouraging the bereaved families to bear the loss with patience.

The violence reportedly erupted on Monday after a dispute between a farmer and a herder over alleged destruction of crops by cattle.

According to accounts of the incident, the confrontation led to the death of the farmer after he was allegedly stabbed by the herder. The incident sparked reprisals, resulting in attacks that left several people dead and heightened tensions within the community.

Security agencies said the violence claimed eight lives, including the farmer and seven herders. Five persons, including a woman, were rescued by security operatives and taken to safety.

Speaking during the condolence visit, the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, described the incident as one of the most tragic in the history of the emirate.

The monarch assured residents that justice would be served and urged all parties to maintain peace and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions.

He also prayed for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and called for peaceful coexistence among farmers and herders in the area.

A representative of the Fulani community expressed sadness over the incident and reaffirmed the community’s commitment to maintaining peaceful relations with other residents.

A funeral prayer was later held for the victims at the Emir’s Palace.

Meanwhile, a joint security team comprising the police and other security agencies has been deployed to the area to prevent further violence and maintain law and order.

The state government said investigations were ongoing to identify and prosecute those involved in the killings and destruction, adding that measures had been put in place to restore lasting peace in the community.