A violent communal clash between Tiv and Jukun youths in Agatashi Community, located in the North Bank area of Makurdi town, has resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals and the destruction of several houses.
The conflict, which erupted on Easter Sunday afternoon, initially appeared to be a cult clash but quickly escalated into a fierce confrontation between Tiv and Jukun youths, leaving numerous individuals injured.
Commander of Operation Shara, a vigilante group in the North Bank area, Nuru Shara, confirmed the incident, revealing that the violence began when some youths attacked churchgoers during Easter Sunday service, resulting in the shooting of two individuals who are currently receiving medical treatment.
Shara further disclosed that the clashes led to the burning of multiple houses in Agatashi Community, situated near the Abattoir under the bridge. He clarified that the altercation primarily involved Jukun and Tiv youths and continued into Monday morning, during which additional fatalities occurred, including the killing of a motorcyclist and a roadside trader.
The Caretaker Chairman of Makurdi Local Government Area, James Dwem, visited the area to assess the situation and appealed for calm between the warring factions.
Benue State Police Commissioner, Mr. Emmanuel Adesina, deployed personnel to the area to quell the violence and also visited the community in response to the crisis.
The tragic events highlight the volatile nature of inter-ethnic tensions in certain regions of Nigeria and underscore the urgent need for dialogue and conflict resolution mechanisms to prevent further loss of life and property damage.
